Psychosocial dynamics come into play
It’s been observed that groups faced with complex problem-solving situations often identify better solutions as a group than any individual in that group can, acting alone. Consider the insertion of that finding into the modern, multidisciplinary medical-surgical environment: Autocratic decision-making by the surgical attending might yield a worse outcome than would shared decision-making and action by the surgical team. To reach optimal group decision-making, information must be shared openly and opinions must be solicited actively.4
Much that we can realize from a checklist
In obstetric care, standardized checklists have been reported to improve outcomes and reduce clinicians’ exposure to professional liability.5 A structured checklist helps to standardize processes; used effectively, it stimulates effective communication among team members. It is also a catalyst to the collaborative conversations and shared decision-making that we need to provide successful clinical care in a complex and multidisciplinary surgical environment.