When this column addresses adverse events, we frequently try to identify some action or inaction that, if addressed differently, might have led to a better outcome. Though thankfully rare, errors nevertheless can occur even with a spotless work-up.

Pop! Pop! Pop! Imagine hearing this unexpected sound in an office building, and then you see a person waving a firearm with active rounds. Workplace violence is on the rise and in healthcare there is no exception. The first line of defense is preparation.

The physician-patient relationship is strengthened when physicians respect the patient’s need for modesty and privacy, when they care enough to educate the patient on the nature of sensitive procedures before performing them, and by using chaperones when conducting intimate physical exams.

Some communications among a patient’s healthcare team may not be as direct as one would prefer, but they may still trigger a duty on the recipient to follow up. Dr. P, a general pediatrician, was called to attend a vaginal delivery of a newborn with a history of three fetal transfusion surgeries.

Learn the key elements of a successful patient experience during this lunchtime program presented by Gwen C. Spence, MBA, Assistant Vice President of CAP's Membership Services department. This event is free for CAP member practice managers.