Exploring the Complex Nature of Ethical Cultures in Health Care Organizations

In the healthcare industry, errors have the potential to cause life-threatening circumstances for patients and legal consequences for medical providers. Errors often range from workplace fatigue and lack of judgment to intentional failure to adhere to policies. When these errors occur, it is essential for organizational leaders to engage transparently with those who are affected alongside internal stakeholders of the organization. Too often organizations fail to openly disclose the extent and nature of unsafe practices and more often than not, it is whistle-blowing that leads to the public finding out the severity of errors or issues. This research project examines emotional acumen and the role it plays in decision-making when it comes to reporting unethical behaviors around medical mistakes.