Continuing from yesterdays thoughts on human error, today focused on the reality that as humans we are prone to mistakes. One of my favorite points from the day essentially stated that any system that is designed with the assumption that a human can be perfect is hardwired for failure. The take home message was to be the leader that surrounds and insulates themselves with individuals that are committed to catching their human errors. The concept of omnipotence of the physician should be abolished. This thought can be difficult to process given the idealistic expectations many of us carried into our careers. But John Nance emphasized the importance of us as leaders. Strong leaders of a team of individuals committed to one goal.
