Severe Consequences of Copy and Paste Documentation
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Jennifer Clair MacCready, CRICO Description A 40-year-old male suffered incontinence and partial quadriplegia attributed to improper management of a cervical hematoma, miscommunication, and substandard documentation among providers. Key Lessons Poor communication can lead to adverse outcomes Documentation in the medical record is intended to support decision making, reflect care provided during the patient encounter, and guide subsequent care If copying and pasting notes, ensure that pasted content accurately reflects the current assessment prior to filing Clinical Sequence A 40-year-old male with quadriparesis resulting from a...
Misinterpretation of CT Scan Delays Stroke Diagnosis
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Katherine Zigmont, Clinical Program Specialist Description A misinterpretation of a stat CT scan result and a lack of communication between providers delays an unresponsive woman’s stroke diagnosis. Clinical Events A 54-year-old female was brought to the emergency department (ED) in the late afternoon after being found unresponsive at work. The ED provider noted that the patient presented as lethargic, stuporous, and aphasic. A stat CT scan was performed, which the radiologist read as negative for a stroke. In the evening, the family asked for a...
MPL Defense Verdict Bolstered by Appropriate Consent Process
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Margaret Janes, Senior Program Director Patient Safety and Education Description Discussion with the patient about risks, benefits, and alternatives of a procedure helped in defense of a known surgical complication. Key Lessons Informed consent is a conversation with the patient that covers both what the patient may think is important and what the physician thinks is important Documentation in the medical record of discussions with the patient, beyond the informed consent form, will help support care provided in the event of an unexpected outcome Managing...
Defense Verdict After Patient Challenged Surgical Outcome
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Jennifer Vuu Sanchez, Program Director Description A 42-year-old female dissatisfied with post-surgical outcomes for chronic pelvic pain sued her gynecologist. Key Lessons Patients will sue even if there is no malpractice because of unexpected outcomes, anger, dissatisfaction, or lack of understanding of what occurred. Appropriate provider-patient communication helps manage expectations and complications. Provide emotional support for clinicians named in a malpractice lawsuit or claim. Clinical Sequence April 3: A 42-year-old female with a history of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) presented to her gynecologist with complaints...
Life-altering Misunderstanding During Shift Change
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written By Kristin O'Reilly, Program Director at CRICO. Description A patient brought to the ED with a subdural hematoma suffered a life-altering injury in the aftermath of a misunderstanding about a blood bank order during a shift change. Key Lesson Structured handoff tools can prevent the loss of key clinical information across shifts. Clinical Sequence An 80-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation (on Coumadin) presented to the Emergency Department (ED) after falling and hitting his head. Upon exam, the patient had no neurologic deficits or...