5 Common Medical Errors – And How to Beat Them (aka: MACK-B)
From MyHSN: Learn. Improve. Repeat
Let’s face it – medical errors happen. They are frustating, sometimes heartbreaking, but they are also a powerful learning tool. We call them MACK-B errors:
- Memory
- Applying rules
- Communication(x3)
- Knowledge/skills
- Bias
Good news? You can actively reduce all of them. Let’s break it down.
1. Memory Fails
- “I forgot to write the max dose …”
- “Wait, what did i do in the last case again?”
These aren’t rare. They are human. But they can be dangerous.
How to fix it:
- Create a quick -acess note system: your phone, a simple blog, or pocket reference.
- Use checklists or templates for common scenarios.
- When in doubt? Look it up. It’s faster than guessing wrong.
2. Misapplied Rules
- Using a bad rule (e.g. outdated guideline).
- Misusing a good rule (e.g. blindly sticking to it without considering the patient).
How to fix it:
- Know your local and national guidelines.
- Remeber: they are guidelines, not commandments.
- If you go off-piste – have a good reason, and document it.
- Share that plan with the patient. Communication matters.
3. Communication (Communication, Communication!)
This is the #1 cause of medical error. Always has been. Probably always will be.
- Poor handovers.
- Unclear documentation.
- Missed (poorly organised) follow-ups.
- Junior doctors unsure how to communicate in the local setup.
- Admin errors, often due to unclear instructions.
How to fix it:
- Shadow great communicators. Copy their language style, even their silences. Email consultants to improve follow-up.
- Get trained. Volunteer for communication skill courses.
- Never blame the system – its your job to overcome it.
- Handle complaints well. Most of them are due to communication gaps. Own it. Say sorry. Learn. Get better.
4. Knowledge and Skills Gaps
- Wrong drug. Wrong dose. Missed allergy.
- Sent a patient home too soon.
- Missed red flags.
- Poor technique in procedures or investigations.
How to fix it:
- Read widely. Stay curious. Never stop learning.
- Go to courses. Attend conferences.
- Watch the best. Ask Questions. No matter how trivial.
- Prescribing? Always double-check doses, interactions, allergies. Use resources. No shame in being safe.
5. Bias
- Overconfidence from past experience.
- Anchoring on a single diagnosis.
- Being afraid to challenge seniors.
- Not asking for help (especially when unsure).
How to fix it:
- Stay humble.
- Always ask: “Could I be wrong?” Remember, seniors were juniors once. They want to help you.
- Try to disprove your theory, not just prove it.
- Encourage second opinions. A fresh set of eyes can catch what yours has missed.
MyHSN Mantras
Mantra 1: You need to make mistakes
- No mistakes? You havent seen enough patients. or taken enough (calculated) risks. This is part of the journey.
- Yes, some errors will haunt you – and that’s okay. Carry the lesson, not the shame.
Mantra 2: Work hard. Be kind. Show you care.
- Say sorry when you need to.
- Protect your juniors. Their mistakes? Often your supervision gap.
- Keep showing up. Go to work the day after a mistake. And keep improving.
