Day one reflection–Telluride East
by Scott Emory Moore
“We don’t run in the ER.”
Early in my career as a new graduate nurse in a Level 1 Trauma Center, I remember hearing these words. I do not remember why the nurse said this to me at the time, may not quite be the same reason as it comes to mind now, but it is a valuable lesson none-the-less. In reflecting on my first day at Telluride East, it is evident to me that one person’s hasty actions can have tremendous impacts on outcomes and patient experiences.
Often in the healthcare industry we are quick to focus on speed and time rather than diligent and deliberate precision in the execution of the interventions. Getting caught up in the fervor of the emergent situation does no good for us, rather it is when we slow down and take a full account of the situation that we are able to serve our patient’s best interests.
Slow down in order to speed up…
The Lewis Blackman story is a great example of the need to really take our time to ensure strong work and safe outcomes for patients. Intentional focus on safety must be at the center of our work as healthcare professionals. The stories of patient loss like Lewis Blackman must pave the way for improved hindsight, insight, and foresight surrounding patient safety.