Making the most of a Morbidity and Mortality meeting

Abstract

Background: Morbidity and Mortality meetings (M&Ms) are a fundamental element of surgical practice. However, there has been little investigation into best practices, to maximise education and improvement outcomes.

Objective: Create a new, evidence-based M&M methodology, that facilitates standardised analysis of errors in a non-judgemental fashion, and highlights areas for improvement.

Methods: A Quality Improvement (QI) methodology was used. This project encompassed a literature review and two sequential QI cycles. A literature review and initial survey highlighted best practice and identified areas for improvement. From this information, a new standardised format was created, which centred around a new modified Fishbone framework, incorporating the London Protocol methodology. The project then sequentially tested new formats, with feedback collected for every new format.

Results: The literature review and surveys guided improvement of the M&M. The need for standardisation was highlighted. The new PowerPoint template and modified Fishbone ensured presentations and analysis were consistent and systematic. Participants reported that M&Ms were more engaging, interactive and structured, ensuring improved discussion of errors. The modified Fishbone framework reinforced a blame-free, system-focused analysis.

Conclusion: M&Ms are a critical aspect of patient safety. This project utilised simple QI tools to encourage collaborative reflection, learning and improvement.

Keywords: M&M; fishbone; healthcare; quality improvement.