Categorisation of diagnostic errors in pathology and cytology
A human factor event-based learning assessment tool for assessment of errors and diagnostic accuracy in histopathology and cytopathology
ReadThis review article summarises systems for categorisation of diagnostic errors in pathology and cytology with regard to diagnostic accuracy and the published information on human factors (HFs) in pathology to date
A 12-point event-based checklist for errors of diagnostic accuracy in histopathology and cytopathology is proposed derived from Dupont’s ‘Dirty Dozen’ HF checklist, as used in the aerospace industry for aircraft maintenance. This HF checklist comprises 12 HFs; (1) Failure of communication. (2) Complacency. (3) Lack of knowledge. (4) Distractions. (5) Lack of teamwork. (6) Fatigue. (7) Lack of resources. (8) Pressure. (9) Lack of assertiveness. (10) Stress. (11) Norms. (12) Lack of awareness.