As part of the
Hippocratic Oath, “Primum non nocere”, the Latin phrase that
means "First, do no harm" is a basis for ethics taught in medical
school. Preventing harms associated healthcare delivery is of paramount
importance to improve patient safety. Although much of these are likely
preventable, some harm may be unavoidable. For example, post-operative bleeding
may occur and be harmful in spite of impeccable surgical technique. Much of the
discussions on avoidable harm events nowadays focus on hospital acquired
conditions (HAC) including the infamous “never events”. This term was coined in response to extremely shocking medical errors (such as wrong-site
surgery) that should always be avoided. In the UK, a framework exists for Never
Events by the National Patient Safety Agency which include a core
list of such events and implementation tools for practitioners. The
NQF list (a list of such never events) has come to signify adverse events that are unambiguous
(clearly identifiable and measurable), serious (resulting in death or
significant disability), and are generally avoidable. So even in the
context of the NQF “Never Events”, it is accepted that they are not always
preventable.
While a goal of zero harm is
advice able, this may not always be feasible. Many practicing clinicians are
dismayed by general statements about eliminating all harm,
but may be more willing to engage in discussions about substantially reducing
the risk of or eliminating preventable harm. Therefore,
developing a better understanding of the nature of preventable harm could lead
to unambiguous communication.
Come lend your hand in this effort at Community Nursing 2018, September 17-18, 2018, Cape Town, South Africa.
Visit us at https://community.nursingconference.com
John Hunt,
Program Manager,
Community Nursing2018,
47 Churchfield Road, London, W3 6AY, United Kingdom
Phone
