Pros And Cons Of Medical Error

Today, medical error has become a major and important challenge to health care systems across the globe. This is because medical errors often lead to harm that may also be non-repairable (Valiani et al. 540; Denham “Chasing Zero”). In 1999, the Institute of Medicine published a report that indicated that medical error in hospitals accounts for between 48,000 and 98,000 deaths annually (Swift et al. 78; Barger et al. 2441). As such, reducing the occurrence of medical errors has become an international concern. Poorolajal defines a medical error as “an act of omission or commission in planning or execution that contributes or could contribute to an unintended result.” (Poorolajal, et al. para 5 -10). In this case, it’s very important to acknowledge

According to Poorolajal, medical errors occur when health care providers choose inappropriate methods of care or improperly execute an appropriate method of care (Poorolajal, et al. para 5 -10), which could potentially lead to loss of life and severe or permanent trauma to the victim. Valiani et al. argues, “Committing an error is part of the human nature” (540). Valiani et al. insist that no health care practitioner is immune to committing an error event if they demonstrate mastery of their skills (540). However, error in health care systems is dependent on many causes and factors. Management of such factors is essential to reducing the occurrence of errors in a health care system. Therefore, what strategies can medical practitioners implement to reduce medical errors? Medical practitioners can implement strategies such as communication, verification, and eliminating extended work shifts. These strategies are most effective because they help medical providers fulfill their full potential in doing their job in the most effective

Many patients, such as children and elderly individuals are often given care, usually non-pharmacological care by caregivers in their homes. Caregivers may include parents, guardians, and even close relatives. Therefore, their involvement in the process of providing care is critical to better health outcomes and to averting medical errors (Swift et al 78). For instance, elderly individuals often suffer from cognitive deficits and functional impairments among other problems that may make them vulnerable to medical errors. Such problems may lead to misdiagnosis and eventually to medical errors. Furthermore, adolescents who are usually afforded greater responsibility for self-care is also vulnerable to medical errors. Many patients or individuals depend on their caregivers for care and also for communication. Therefore, caregivers play a critical role in the process of diagnosing, treatment, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for these types of patients. Caregivers may also give insight on drug use, especially Over the Counter medication and other substances that may affect the diagnosis and treatment even through drug interaction. Information provided by caregivers can help improve the process of diagnosis and avert medical errors (Neuspiel and Taylor