Errors during resuscitation: the impact of perceived authority on delivery of care. | PSNet

Errors during resuscitation: the impact of perceived authority on delivery of care. | PSNet

Errors During Resuscitation: the impact of perceived authority on delivery of care.

Delaloye NJ, Tobler K, O'Neill T, et al.   J Patient Saf. 2020

Simulation training can help interprofessional teams recognize the impact of medical hierarchies on team communication and patient safety. This study evaluated resuscitation team behavior and the influence of perceived authority in response to an incorrect medication order given by a senior physician during a simulated event. Teams exhibited a high rate of deference to the senior physician; half of the teams participating in the simulation followed the incorrect order, 23% followed the order with no attempt to challenge or verify instructions. This study highlights a need for healthcare institutions and providers to be trained on the influence of perceived authority and potential impacts on patient safety.