A 49-year-old surgeon realises that he inadvertently left a small surgical sponge in a patient's abdomen, which is discovered on a postoperative x-ray...

Question

A 49-year-old surgeon realises that he inadvertently left a small surgical sponge in a patient's abdomen, which is discovered on a postoperative x-ray. The patient is currently stable. According to Canadian patient safety and professionalism standards, what is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately disclose the error to the patient, apologise, explain the potential consequences and outline the plan for corrective surgery

Answer

Inform the patient only if they develop complications

Answer

Ask the radiologist to amend the report to avoid documentation

Answer

Discuss with colleagues but avoid documenting the error

Answer

Wait until the next routine follow-up visit to mention it briefly

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Disclosure of medical error

A 49-year-old surgeon realises that he inadvertently left a small surgical sponge in a patient's abdomen, which is discovered on a postoperative x-ray. The patient is currently stable. According to Canadian patient safety and professionalism standards, what is the most appropriate course of action?