Human factors in dentistry: Part 2. Whose fault is a mistake?

Abstract

This two-part series introduces the concept of human factors, how and why mistakes happen and how we can minimize the risks of them occurring. Part 2 of the series explores ‘never events, near misses and duty of candour’ within the NHS. It also provides four clinical case scenarios of clinical errors that have resulted in actual or potential harm to a patient, identifying the human factors involved in each scenario. CPD/Clinical Relevance: There may be merit in the dental profession moving away from the blame culture when things go wrong..