La ética en la prácticacuando algo se hace mal : del error médico a la mala praxis

Abstract

Objective: To analyse two of the most significant ethical issues related to medical errors: informing patients and relatives; and the moral duty to prevent and try to minimise this situation. Design: The recommended ethical and medical principles are consistent with those of medicine in general and are underpinned by the specific guidelines published by professional organisations, such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). The consequences for the professional and the patient of not distinguishing between medical error and malpractice are analysed. The emotional impact on professionals and patients is studied as are the institutional issues and implementation of programmes for the prevention of medical errors at healthcare centres, that must include the analysis of the technical error with the collaboration of all professionals and determination about what the family should be told, by whom, and how. Conclusions: Admitting errors, apologising for wrongful actions, improving the physician-patient relationship, improving trust in the professionals and help prevent errors.