Critical Incident Analysis

Critical Incident Analysis INTRODUCTION A critical incident analysis is one in which human behaviour is observed and data collected to provide a practical approach to solving practical problems as well as developing some psychological principles (Flanagan 1954). This critical incident analysis will address some of the important issues around the care that Sarah received as identified in the initial incident (Appendix 1). The focus will be on confidentiality as this was the basis of the incident. The hypothesis to be determined is to ascertain whether Sarah was entitled to confidentiality indicating the General Practitioner was wrong to send out the letter to her parents. Issues will also be discussed in relation to Sarah’s care to consider what steps could have been done to improve the overall care that she received. This will be undertaken using a wide range of literature which will be critically appraised using appropriate research frameworks to determine the quality and reliability of evidence used. This will include data that is qualitative and quantitative as well as systematic reviews. This should form a conclusion which should prove or disprove the hypothesis. DISCUSSION Confidentiality is a very complex issue especially with adolescents and there appears to be no clear guidelines for Health Care Professionals to follow. The NMC code of conduct (2008) stipulates that people’s right to confidentiality must be respected which therefore suggests that this applies to both adults and children. Burnard and Chapman (2003) recognise the necessity of confidentiality and stipulate that this should be honoured to adhere to the NMC Code of conduct. It is a concept which is based on the Hippocratic Oath which states that anything heard in secret should be kept silent. One of the important factors of confidentiality that is highlighted is trust. It is believed by Burnard and Chapman that without this a therapeutic relationship cannot be developed. Gulland (1996)