The Netherlands journal of medicine
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Based on increasing incidence and the occurrence of worldwide outbreaks, leptospirosis is recognised as an emerging zoonosis. Severe manifestations are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates and may therefore pose an important risk to public health, especially in certain high prevalence areas. ⋯ Prognostic factors correlating with severity and survival of leptospirosis include indicators of renal failure, pulmonary involvement and electrolyte imbalances. We report an imported case of SPFL in a returning traveller, and review the literature discussing epidemiology, clinical manifestations, prognostic factors and treatment of this resurgent disease.
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The release of the report 'To err is human' put medical safety and the disclosure of errors to the forefront of the health care agenda. Disclosure of medical errors by physicians is vital in this process. We studied the role of background and social psychological factors in internists' willingness to report medical errors. ⋯ Personal and social issues contributing to the will and addressed properly to stimulate disclosure. The creation of an atmosphere where disclosing errors is routine seems vital. In addition, it is essential to create a departmental culture where medical errors are discussed in a non-judgmental, safe environment. In order to improve reporting of medical errors, more emphasis should be placed on the individual barriers that preclude adequate reporting.