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IMPACT OF A CLINICAL INCIDENT ON THE CLINICIAN
Most doctors feel personally and professionally affected by their involvement in an SCI. The impact of an SCI can cause an increase in anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances, reduced job satisfaction and fear of repercussions - which can lead to an under-reporting of incidents - in direct contradiction of GMC guidance.
An interesting study was undertaken in London on the experiences of, and responses to, medical error amongst junior doctors (Kroll et al 2008). Trainees reported disclosing errors informally, particularly when teams were seen as supportive, but were reluctant to criticise their colleagues. Formal reports and disclosure to patients were very rare. Patient care was compromised when juniors did not access senior help, often when they were working outside their usual team environment. The study described how a lack of cooperation between teams and poor continuity of care also contributes to errors. Learning is maximised when errors are formally discussed, and constructive feedback is offered. However, both blame and the prioritisation of reassurance over learning and structured feedback appeared to inhibit reflection on the experience of error.
A number of sources of support are available to you if you find it difficult to process or move on from being involved in an SCI. Speak with your Educational Supervisor or a close colleague. In addition, the professional Support Unit can offer individual support e.g. coaching.
You will be asked about any involvement in an SCI as part of the GMC National training survey; do not leave it to then, to say you have been involved. Always discuss with your educational/clinical supervisor at the time. https://www.gmc-uk.org/-/media/documents/nts-results-2020---summary-report_pdf-84390984.pdf