Table 3 Key elements to consider when discussing adverse events with patients
From: Dealing with complications in interventional radiology
Content | Relevant information is communicated concisely in a way that a patient and their family can understand and retain |
Timing | The timing of information delivery is also important. For example, on the recovery unit after being roused from a general anaesthetic may not be the best time to inform patients about adverse intraprocedural events. Conversely such information should not be withheld for excessive periods of time, such as after a patient has been discharged from hospital |
Location | The location in which information is shared should also be considered. Explaining the events leading to a relative’s death should be undertaken with great care and compassion, with preparations made for a quiet and private clinic room and adequate time to allow for any further questions or discussion |
Documentation | Clear documentation of adverse events and relevant discussion should be included in the patients' clinical notes. Where relevant to ongoing follow up or intervention, the documentation should be included in the discharge paperwork |
Follow-up | If a complication has led to death or a serious complication, a review meeting with the patient or relatives can be held to discuss results of any investigations into the case. This is often an effective way to provide closure for both the physician and the affected parties. These meetings often happen weeks to months after the initial event. Various thoughts or concerns can be explored in a constructive way after there has been time to reflect on events and conclude an investigation |