When it comes to obstetrics, Chesterton may only be half right. When there are poor outcomes in obstetrics, many patients will eventually seek compensation via litigation. Although disclosure and apology have been touted as keys to reducing litigation, there has been little research in this area. Certainly, patients and their families are justified in seeking answers to their questions after an unanticipated outcome, and most clinicians would agree that we have a moral and ethical duty to provide complete and honest answers for families when outcomes are poor, irrespective of whether there were errors. In addition, most nurses wish to provide comfort and want to be able to express sorrow, to show empathy, and to provide solace. But what are the legal implications of apology and disclosure? And how can clinicians navigate the sensitive waters surrounding the simple phrase "I'm sorry"? This column will explore current laws on apology and disclosure as well as provide information on some innovative approaches being used across the country.
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