By Betsy Mramor, M2 MUSC
It seems like common sense for us to realize that we will all make mistakes at some point in our careers. So why are we so afraid of admitting this when it happens? Are our own egos so big that we can’t admit we are human? Why is it that this same humanity that our patients and society expect of us disappears in a mistake. By not talking about these mistakes we continue to allow society to form these unrealistic perceptions that the healthcare field is perfect. I believe that in order for the culture to change; this perception needs to be broken. There is no other way for this perception to change unless mistakes are brought to the table, discussed, and proactive measures are taken to correct them. Sweeping them under the carpet will only end up reinforcing this perception of the perfect healthcare system. Not only will this perception be reinforced, but also the unacceptable behavior of hiding or covering up mistakes.
I was so happy to hear confirmation of my thoughts from Cliff. Earlier in the week, Cliff had told us a story about how he lost his first heart transplant patient. He told us how shaken he was afterward. So shaken that he came home and told his wife that he had a 100% mortality rate. The next day he was asked what he told his next heart transplant patient. He told us how he was completely honest. He told the patient it was his second time doing the surgery and he lost the first patient. I keep trying to place myself in this patient’s shoes. Would I let this physician do my own heart transplant? Even with odds not in his favor; I would have let him. For myself, there is a feeling of comfort and safety that comes from someone willing to admit that he is just as human (imperfect) as me.