Diagnostic errors in pediatrics

From the abstract of the Pediatrics journal article "Errors of Diagnosis in Pediatric Practice: A Multisite Survey":

The overall response rate was 53% (N = 726). More than one-half (54%) of respondents reported that RESULTS The overall response rate was 53% (N = 726). More than one-half (54%) of respondents reported that they made a diagnostic error at least once or twice per month; this frequency was markedly higher (77%) among trainees. Almost one-half (45%) of respondents reported diagnostic errors that harmed patients at least once or twice per year. Failure to gather information through history, physical examination, or chart review was the most-commonly reported process breakdown, whereas inadequate care coordination and teamwork was the most-commonly reported system factor. Viral illnesses being diagnosed as bacterial illnesses was the most-commonly reported diagnostic error, followed by misdiagnosis of medication side effects, psychiatric disorders, and appendicitis. Physicians ranked access to electronic health records and close follow-up of patients as strategies most likely to be effective in preventing diagnostic errors.

CONCLUSION Pediatricians reported making diagnostic errors relatively frequently, and patient harm from these errors was not uncommon.

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