Adverse Events Part 7

We encourage physicians to be open with patients throughout the entire range of care—from anticipated to unanticipated outcomes. Conversations are easy when things go as planned, meaning the surgery was successful or the treatment plan produced the desired effect.

Discussions with patients and family are challenging with an unanticipated outcome because of uncertainty regarding whether the standard of care was met. The physician or practice may not yet be able to comment on whether the care was appropriate until after a review. This may require an analysis of operational processes, reviewing equipment or medications involved, consulting clinical guidelines or protocols, or discussions with other care providers.