When should feedback be provided in a team setting following a medical incident?

Providing feedback in a team setting following a medical incident should occur after the incident has been debriefed and emotions have settled. This approach allows team members to process the situation and their feelings, leading to a more constructive environment for discussion. When emotions are high immediately after the incident, it can hinder open communication and make it difficult for team members to absorb feedback effectively. A calm and thoughtful debriefing encourages reflective practice, enabling team members to engage with the feedback in a meaningful way, promoting learning and improvement in future performances.

This timing is crucial because feedback delivered too soon during heightened emotions may be perceived as criticism rather than constructive guidance, which can lead to defensiveness and inhibit learning. Furthermore, waiting until all team members have had a moment to reflect fosters an atmosphere of psychological safety, essential for team growth and improvement.