When an error or injury occurred during the delivery of health care, the patient or a significant other should be notified.
When an error or injury has occurred during the delivery of health care:
(1) The patient, family and/or or representative is entitled to prompt notification and an honest explanation of what happened.
(2) The explanation should include how the injury occurred and the effects on the patient, both short and long term.
(3) Possible remedies available to the patient should be presented.
(4) The contact person should be notified of the factors involved and what steps have been taken to reduce the likelihood of similar injury from happening to other patients.
Comments:
(1) Sometimes the health care providers will want to contact their lawyers prior to such a notification.
(2) Government agencies and/or the JCAH may also need to be notified depending on the circumstances.
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