Disclosing adverse events to institutions and patients may be a trying, and often stressful, experience for providers. American Academy of Pediatric gives five recommendations for institutions when an adverse event occurs.
1. Providers and institutions should implement policies and procedures when disclosing adverse events to patients and their caregivers. The disclosures should be honest and empathetic.
2. Have policies in place that give those providers involved in adverse events the necessary emotional support.
3. As part of a comprehensive safety curriculum, implement education programs concerning the identification and prevention of medical errors, as well as discussions about adverse events with patients.
4. The AAP advises state legislators and other regulatory bodies to continue devising mechanisms to lower providers' liability risks associated with disclosure.
5. More research is needed regarding disclosure approaches and disclosure education's effectiveness.
