… inadequate time (64%) and lack of collaboration (40%). … Matulis JC, Kok SN, Dankbar EC, Majka AJ. A survey of …

This observational study of the presence of apology documentation in the electronic health record found that approximately half of the apologies were related to errors. Researchers examined apologies and identified specific issues that were not uncovered using standard error reporting. The authors suggest reviewing apologies in clinical documentation in order to detect errors.

The SQUIRE guidelines were developed to improve reporting on research and initiatives targeted toward improving quality and safety of health care. This commentary provides examples for authors who seek to apply the revised guidelines in safety improvement work and write about their experiences.