Question

A 40-year-old family physician realises that he prescribed the wrong dose of a beta-blocker to a patient with heart failure, leading to a brief hospital admission for symptomatic bradycardia. The patient has now recovered. According to CanMEDS Professional and Communicator roles, what is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Openly disclose the error to the patient, apologise, explain what happened and outline steps to prevent recurrence

Answer

Do not tell the patient as this may undermine trust

Answer

Document the error privately but avoid discussion with the team

Answer

Blame the electronic prescribing system and avoid taking responsibility

Answer

Rely on the hospital to inform the patient; no action is needed in primary care

Practice question