Open Disclosure — The First Conversation
Within 24 hours of harm, the senior clinician tells the patient what happened, says sorry, and says what happens next. This is the script
What it is
The structure and the words for the first disclosure conversation after harm: preparation, who is present, the five elements (what happened, apology, effects, what is being done, what happens next), what not to say, and the record.
Where to use it
Every clinician who may lead a disclosure; in the induction pack; beside the Sentinel Event Policy. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct. Evidence for: Hospital Standard 4 — open disclosure; Sentinel Event Policy; Code of Conduct.
Translate and adapt
English master edition. Georgian and other translations are added as they are clinically reviewed. Any facility may translate, add its logo and adapt wording to local practice — keeping the ASF block, the source attribution and the licence line on the sheet. Clinical thresholds and drug doses must be confirmed against national protocols before use.
The same code is printed on the tool itself. Scan it in any facility to reach this page.
Open Disclosure — Written Follow-Up to the Patient or Family
Supporting Staff After a Serious Incident — The Second Victim
Open Disclosure Policy — Template
Open Disclosure — Record and Quarterly Audit
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