Advancing paramedicine: Error, accountability and patient safety

Abstract

The consequences of human error range from the benign to the catastrophic. Feedback and formal review of failures in human performance are essential for learning and avoidance of harm in the future. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that paramedicine may sustain a culture where formal review of error may be considered punitive, hampering enhancements in care and professional maturity. With enhanced transparency of adverse events, mature review processes and acceptance and translation of recommendations, we look to a shift in the culture. Clinicians and organisations must be accountable for their role in review and audit of near misses and adverse events. There is a path forward for paramedicine, where courageous individuals are empowered to identify clinical error and speak up, promoting growth. We must prevent individual feelings of shame and fear of consequences. Only then can we see a true patient-centric safety culture in paramedicine, one which supports clinicians’ development.