Module 1 - Study of Errors Module 2 - Event Reporting Module 3 - MERS-TM Glossary Training Introduction
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Using the social definition, a human error has occurred if there is general agreement that a person should have done other than he or she did. In most cases, the human actions contributing to an event are unintentional either they did not intend their action or they did not intend to put a patient at risk.

How, then, can punishment deter someone from committing an act that was unintentional in the first place?

If the act is unintentional and if punishment (or the threat of punishment) has little deterrent effect on human errors, does that mean our work cultures should be "blame free?"

 


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