A profile of morbidity and mortality rounds within resident training programs of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons

Abstract

MMR are commonly incorporated in surgical resident training programs. The primary objectives of these rounds are to educate residents, refine hospital medical and operational policies, and to improve patient care. The majority of residency programs view MMR as worthwhile. However, the majority of veterinary residency programs fail to follow up MMR with formal initiatives for improvement and objective outcome assessments for issues identified during MMR.

Morbidity and Mortality Conferences: A Mini Review and Illustrated Application in Veterinary Medicine

“…Similarly, frequency of M&MCs is highly variable, with a monthly interval being a common frequency reported in the literature ( 3 , 7 , 12 , 18 – 20 , 23 – 25 , 28 – 30 , 42 , 43 ).…”

“…In general, all cases of mortality should be reviewed with an M&MC, though this is not always the case ( 42 ). In some centers, deaths resulting from the natural progression of a condition are not reviewed ( 30 ).…”

“…The duration of M&MCs is often unreported though is likely to be a function of available time (e.g., over lunch) and the number of cases to be discussed. Reported durations have ranged from 20 min (15 min presentation plus 5 min discussion) to over an hour ( 6 , 15 , 21 , 28 , 30 , 42 , 43 ). The OM3 and SBAR models last 1 h and 20 min, respectively.…”

“…Audience composition is highly variable, though a multidisciplinary approach is strongly favored, as this enriches the discussion and maximizes dissemination of information ( 7 , 18 , 28 – 30 , 42 , 44 ). An inclusive approach has been advocated to include care staff, having the added benefit of fostering an open safety culture ( 12 , 29 , 30 , 45 ).…”

“…Where a system or infrastructure deficit has been identified as a major contributing factor to the adverse event, the appropriate member of leadership (e.g., hospital director) should be notified so the deficit(s) can be addressed. A recent survey of surgical residency programs registered with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons suggests that in the majority of cases (26/35 programs, survey response rate 32%), discussions do not translate in to implemented changes in practice or changes are not tracked to assess outcome ( 42 ).…”