“A man must be big enough to admit his mistakes, smart enough to profit from them, and strong enough to correct them.” -John C. Maxwell
Mistakes are something everyone dreads and hopes to avoid at all costs. Sometimes mistakes happen, so it is important to be upfront about them. Mistakes can be preventable, and that’s why it’s important to follow rules and realize there is always a reason why things are done a certain way. Being in the right head space is also how you can prepare yourself before you perform any tasks. Knowing what you have to say or do before you walk in a room will prepare you for your next interaction. If you are ever unsure, ask someone before you regret your hesitance later, and listen to your gut!
One of the main concerns for healthcare is making medication errors. As with anything in the medical field, there are minor mistakes and more serious mistakes. The most important goal is patient safety. The first thing you assess after a mistake is the patient’s status. Healthcare providers make a commitment to do good and not cause harm to anyone. Little mistakes like accidentally throwing something away in the wrong bin or charting on the wrong person can add to your learning experience. You should own up to your mistakes, so you can discuss them and move on. The next time you or someone else is in the same situation, you will be more alert and know better and avoid the scenario all together! We are human and mistakes happen. Take the appropriate time to think about the event, but don’t be too hard on yourself. As long as the patient is okay and no harm was done, you can fix the mistake and move forward.