Evaluation of malprakti̇ce anxiety in pediatric doctors

Medical error is an adverse effect of treatment that can be prevented and can cause obvious or uncertain harm to the patient. It is one of the most common health problem in all around the world. Physicians can be sued or complained by patients, their relatives, hospital administration or other persons because of their medical errors. Behavioral changes and malpractice concern are observed in physicians who have been sued or complained. Our aim in this report is to assess the definition, rights and responsibilities of pediatricians and analyze their malpractice concern. In addition, to explain malpractice and to evaluate the exposure levels of pediatric physicians from malpractice according to their sociodemographic characteristics, titles or other characteristics. This study has participated in 508 pediatric physicians working in Turkey. Survey method was used. Collected data were recorded on digital survey system. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. As a result of the analyzes, it has been revealed that malpractice anxiety is very high among pediatricians. It has been observed that the malpractice experiences of pediatricians and the wrong perception of medical error increase malpractice concern. Malpractice knowledge levels of pediatricians were also evaluated. It was determined that they do not have sufficient knowledge about malpractice and medical error. They were also insufficient in documentation and reporting. As a result, in order to prevent malpractice anxiety, pediatricians should be informed about malpractice and they should obtain written consent from their patients before medical procedures and applications. In our country, the rights of physicians should be given importance and working conditions should be improved.