Set Errors/Mistakes

[sjadams]

I am seeking information regarding the errors made on set assembly ( ie dirty instruments, missing items, missing indicators, broken items etc ).
My question is how do managers/directors handle these mistakes with their staff??
1) Is there a progressive disciplinary process??
2) Are certain mistakes weighted more than others??
3) Is there a minimum number of mistakes a staff member is allowed to commit over a period of time??

Thanks

[lcox]

1.Most of our errors are "learning experiences" but they do count against you at the annual appraisal, I keep track.
2. But....if you make the same mistake 3 times,ina 3 month period you are given a more intense "learning experience" and a warning that the next time you make the same mistake, you will acquire a write up. Since hospital guidelines allow you to acquire 9 points a year, even if each one counted for only 1 point, after 9 points you would be terminated. But points are determined by the severity and repetition of the problem.
3. The only mistakes that count heavier are ones that require the whole OR room to be torn down and restarted or that cause the OR to fill out an "Incident Report".

Missing items don't count against you as long as there is a missing tag on the count sheet, with a copy turned in to the Instrument Specialist, AND a "Missing" tag on the outside of the tray.

Not a perfect system, but we are working on it.