I need this in about 250 words In this first of four discussion boards, you will watch the video titled, “Transparent Health – Lewis Blackman Story. In this video, two issues in health care will be addressed: (1) prevention of medical errors and (2) how we the care givers respond when our care has caused harm to one of our patients. (23014, April). Youtube.com. (1 hour) Questions:After viewing this video, you and your nurse colleagues are to discuss the following:
When it comes to the prevention of medical errors and the response of caregivers when harm is caused to a patient, the Lewis Blackman Story serves as a poignant example. The video highlights the tragic and preventable death of Lewis Blackman, a 15-year-old patient, due to medical errors and the subsequent response, or lack thereof, from the healthcare system.
One aspect that stands out is the importance of effective communication between healthcare providers. Lewis’s symptoms were initially misdiagnosed, leading to a delay in appropriate treatment. This miscommunication is a clear example of a preventable medical error that could have been avoided if there was better coordination and communication among the healthcare team.
Additionally, the video underscores the significance of patient advocacy. Lewis’s mother, Helen Haskell, played a vital role in advocating for her son’s care, recognizing the errors and advocating for his needs. Her determination and persistence in questioning the care being provided demonstrates the crucial role that patient advocacy plays in preventing medical errors and improving patient safety.
Another critical issue highlighted in the video is the response of caregivers when harm is caused to a patient. In Lewis’s case, there was a lack of accountability and transparency. The healthcare providers involved in his care initially denied responsibility and were defensive when confronted with the errors that led to his death. This lack of transparency not only hinders the learning and improvement from such tragic incidents but also fails to provide the family with the closure and support they need.
In order to prevent medical errors and improve patient safety, healthcare organizations must adopt a culture of safety. This involves creating an environment where open communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn from mistakes are encouraged. Learning from adverse events and near misses should become an integral part of healthcare practice, allowing for continuous improvement and the prevention of future errors.
Furthermore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to be open and transparent when errors do occur. Promptly reporting and acknowledging mistakes, providing proper support to patients and their families, and taking steps to prevent similar errors in the future are all essential elements of a transparent and accountable healthcare system. By valuing honesty and learning from adverse events, healthcare organizations can effectively rebuild trust with patients and their families.
In conclusion, the Lewis Blackman Story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing medical errors and responding to harm caused to patients. The video highlights the need for effective communication, patient advocacy, and a culture of safety within healthcare organizations. By implementing these strategies, healthcare systems can work towards preventing future errors, improving patient safety, and providing the necessary support and transparency to patients and their families.