February safety behavior: ‘Ask Clarifying Questions’

When communication isn’t clear, try using this introductory phrase: “I have a clarifying question.”

Asking clarifying questions can reduce the risk of making an error by 2½ times. That’s the takeaway of this month’s safety behavior.

“The goal is to make sure you really understand what’s being communicated so that you don’t make a decision based on a wrong assumption,” said Becky Pomrenke, M.S.N., RN, CNL, CNS, patient safety manager for USA Health. “When you speak up, remember to phrase your question in a manner that will get an answer that improves your understanding of the information.”

For example, imagine that you have an appointment on a particular date and time, but you receive a call or a text confirmation showing different information. “We can ask a clarifying question to ensure that everyone is on the same page, and to make sure we show up on the correct date and at the right time,” Pomrenke said.

The safety behavior of the month, part of USA Health’s Safety Starts With Me initiative is discussed and practiced at huddles and in departments across the health system.