This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Katherine Zigmont, BS, RN, CPPS, CRICO Description A 34-year-old male suffered complications of untreated pyelonephritis, including sepsis and multiple amputations, after spending 17 hours in the Emergency Department (ED). Key Lessons Boarding of critically ill patients is associated with increased mortality Abdominal pain coupled with an elevated white blood cell count and fever elevates consideration of urgent testing/imaging Weekend and off shift resources, e.g., a radiologist to read a CT scan, cannot be underappreciated Trainees require vigilant supervision Direct communication between ordering providers and consultants...
This case study was put together by our partners at CRICO and was written by Annette Roberts, CRICO A 68-year-old inpatient suffered a severe head injury following an unwitnessed fall. Key Lessons Identification and reassessment of patient fall risk is critical for recognition of changes in patient status Documentation and comprehensive hand off communication is vital for sharing fall risk information Implementation of post-fall protocol/policy provides a standardized approach to evaluation and is essential for ongoing patient safety Clinical Sequence A patient on coumadin for peripheral vascular disease was admitted to the hospital by his cardiologist for symptoms consistent with...
The first few months of 2025 have seen some significant developments in the legal landscape of reproductive care in Idaho following the 2022 ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson and the subsequent prohibition of abortion in Idaho. For related developments leading up to this year, see Update on Dobbs and Obstetrical Care in Idaho. Most recent news: January 2025- St. Luke’s Healthcare in Boise, ID filed a lawsuit (St. Luke’s v. Labrador) in which they seek a declaratory judgment that invalidates Idaho’s abortion prohibition, to the extent that it conflicts with the Emergency Medicine Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). As...
Navigating the Risks and Benefits of AI in Clinical Diagnosis
This resource was made available to MIEC through our partnership with Candello. It was written by Hannah Tremont, MPH Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies can potentially transform health care services. Although numerous questions and risks remain regarding AI’s integration into health care, the potential benefits of optimizing services and mitigating risks are significant. As most health care systems assess the various risks and advantages of safely and ethically incorporating AI into their operations, Candello examines malpractice claims data where AI may have a significant influence: diagnosis. In a recent Candello webinar discussing AI’s integration into health care services, the presenters discussed...
This week (March 9th through 15th) is National Patient Safety Awareness Week. MIEC is dedicated to raising awareness about patient safety and encouraging our members to prioritize safety in all aspects of care. MIEC’s Knowledge Library offers a wealth of information to support patient safety and risk management, including Speak up for Patient Safety, which discusses the importance of fostering a culture of safety and creating high-reliability care environments. Other useful resources in the Knowledge Library include legal and regulatory updates, case studies, and practice management recommendations. The American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM) plays a pivotal role in...