When something goes wrong in medical care

摘要

As health workers, we do everything within our power to ensure that our patients have the best visual and clinical outcomes possible. What should we do if something goes wrong? Health care is an inherently dangerous activity. We give people drugs that can be poisonous and use sharp instruments in their eyes. Sometimes, these activities will have harmful consequences. What should we do when someone comes to harm as a result of something we have, or have not, done?The UK’s General Medical Council – the body that sets ethical standards for doctors in the UK – provides guidanceSUP 1 /SUP that emphasises the duty of candour: the duty to be open and truthful with our patients. If something goes wrong, we have to tell our patients, give them a full explanation, and apologise.