Lessons learned from error reporting will serve to correct the system problems that underlie many harmful events. The hospital reserves the right to appropriately address threats to patient safety where investigation of the incident reveals there are serious and unusual deficiencies in care, such as gross violation of hospital policies or procedures, or a reckless or intentional disregard for patient safety. Consideration should be given to involving appropriate hospital resources such as the Office for Quality Management. Patients have the right to decline disclosure. If in doubt, ask.
Disclosure is a process.
Disclose only what is known at the time of the discussion. Avoid attributing blame to specific individuals, but accept responsibility for actions and outcomes. Adverse events and errors are, however, rarely solely due to the action or inaction of a single individual. An apology or an expression of sorrow is often appropriate and not necessarily an admission of guilt. Doing so at an early stage in the dislosure process can help prevent bad feelings and unnecessary legal or professional complaints.