Skilled workers more likely to make mistakes if interrupted

Arizona healthcare staff may be interested to learn that, according to a study, highly trained workers may be at risk for making mistakes if they are interrupted. The reasoning behind this is that skilled workers generally work much more quickly, making it difficult to recall exactly where they were after the interruption.

A lead investigator used a nurse as an example. If nurses are interrupted while they are in the process of dosing a patient, it can be difficult for them to remember whether or not they actually gave the medication. This is because the skilled nurse is completing each task at a quick pace. Nurses who are more experienced are more likely to make medical mistakes than those who are newer as they are able to perform the steps faster.

The researchers noted that skilled workers who are able to perform tasks quickly and accurately are also more likely to have a system that helps them keep track of where they are should they be interrupted. As such, it was recommended that skilled healthcare staff who are more likely to get interrupted, such as emergency room staff, may benefit from specialized training and equipment that can help them keep on track.

A doctor error could have serious consequences for a patient. In some cases, it could cause patients’ health conditions to worsen or they may not be properly diagnosed. If a patient suffers due to overworked staff or other medical errors, a medical malpractice attorney may help. Depending on the situation, the attorney may gather evidence that shows that medical mistakes were made or that healthcare staff did not follow proper procedures. The attorney will often attempt to reach a settlement so that the patient can focus on recovery.