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Post-critical incident debriefing — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateEthics, Human Factors and Patient SafetyPost-critical incident debriefingFRCA Final

After a difficult emergency caesarean section under general anaesthesia, the trainee involved is tearful and says she kept trying laryngoscopy despite falling saturation. The mother is well, and there is time before the next case. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Hold a structured hot debrief focused on learning and support

A structured hot debrief after a critical incident supports staff, identifies system learning and reinforces safe behaviours. Avoidance may leave psychological harm and missed learning. Blame-focused criticism reduces openness and may worsen future safety. Documentation and formal reporting may still be required even if the final patient outcome was good.

Reference: RCoA human factors guidance; NHS Patient Safety Incident Response Framework