Silenced in the OR: A Just Culture Perspective
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
10-17-2026
Abstract
A medical student assisting with patient positioning and perioperative preparation in the operating room encountered dismissive communication followed by a public reprimand. Subsequently, the student became withdrawn, hesitant to speak up, and cognitively distracted. This case illustrates how negative interactions toward trainees can erode psychological safety and introduce latent threats to both individual performance and team function, potentially increasing the risk of error. We discuss how principles of Just Culture and Human Factors Engineering emphasize respectful communication, accountability, and psychological safety as essential components of effective teamwork and safe perioperative care delivery.
Recommended Citation
Ahmed E, Benacquista B, Soto R. Silenced in the or: a just culture perspective. Presented at: American Society of Anesthesiologists, The Anesthesiology Meeting; 2026 Oct 17; San Diego, CA. Available from: https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21448/presentation/7929
Comments
American Society of Anesthesiologists, The Anesthesiology Meeting, October 16-20, 2026, San Diego, CA