ethics news & views: March 16 | Medical Error and Medical Narcissism

March 10, 2005

March 16 | Medical Error and Medical Narcissism

Disclosing a harm-causing medical error can be one of the most anguishing conversations a healthcare professional can have. In addition to fears that disclosure might lead to a lawsuit, a harm-causing error can also assault the professional’s sense of competency and adequacy. Often, the necessary conversation between healthcare professional and patient or family is avoided or conducted very poorly.

John Banja's new book, Medical Errors and Medical Narcissism, examines the concept of “medical narcissism” and how error disclosure to patients and families is often compromised by the health professional’s need to preserve his or her self-esteem at the cost of honoring the patient’s right to the unvarnished truth about what has happened.

This groundbreaking book explores common psychological reactions of healthcare professionals to the commission of a serious harm-causing error and the variety of obstacles that can compromise ethically sound, truthful disclosure. Insights are offered on how talented, capable persons who feel a driving need to demonstrate their competence can fall into narcissistic traps. Guidance on disclosing errors artfully and ethically is provided through a series of step-by-step recommendations along with a list of particularly helpful words and phrases.

A reading and discussion with author John Banja at 7pm, Wednesday, March 16 in the Jones Room, Woodruff Memorial Library. Book signing and reception to follow. Free and open to the public. RSVPs to (404) 727-1179 are appreciated but not required. Parking information.

[ Posted by Chance Hunter at March 10, 2005 11:18 AM |