"Wrong-site surgery” is one of the most serious, rare and preventable medical errors, known as a sentinel event, and must be reported to the highest level of the health system.
The findings will be delivered to the NSW Ministry of Health and other statutory bodies by August 9. It will not be made public, in line with standard protocol and to ensure confidentiality. "There are fail-safes in place to stop these occurring, but occasionally the wrong site is operated on, for instance, the left knee instead of the right knee, or the index finger instead of the ring finger," Dr Quinn said. "They are considered ‘never-ever’ events and must be investigated thoroughly with the aim of making sure it doesn’t happen again.
On Monday, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said he immediately instructed NSW Health to liaise with the Northern Beaches Hospital to ensure that all support possible for the patient and their family would be available."In such situations, there are investigative processes and those must proceed to their conclusion before any further comment can be made," he said.
Kaubo What on earth is going on at this new Northern Beaches Hospital? I though GladysB stepped in after last disaster and closed it down? She defo should now. wildhealth2019 ethics auspol