Why Veterinary Mistakes Happen and How to Recover

Veterinary professionals often hold themselves to the highest standards, striving for excellence in every aspect of their work. However, veterinary mistakes can and do happen, sometimes leading to serious outcomes for the patients they care so deeply about. This reality can feel overwhelming, but mistakes are an inherent part of being human. 

This article explores why veterinary mistakes occur, steps to take after an error, and how veterinary professionals can recover both professionally and emotionally. It also offers practical tips to help teams learn from these experiences and prevent future errors. 

Why do veterinary mistakes happen? 

Most veterinary errors do not stem from a lack of clinical knowledge. Instead, they are often linked to non-technical challenges such as communication, decision-making, leadership, managing stress, and prioritizing wellbeing. 

Mistakes often make sense in the context of the moment. A veterinarian might mishear instructions during a chaotic shift, feel distracted after a difficult client interaction, or struggle to concentrate after working long hours without adequate rest or nourishment. 

In many cases, errors are caused by system-wide failures rather than individual shortcomings. Inefficiencies in team communication, excessive workloads, or unclear protocols can all contribute to an environment where mistakes are more likely. 

What to do after a veterinary mistake 

If a veterinary mistake occurs, the following steps can help address the situation: 

1. Take a breath 

Mistakes often provoke strong emotional and physical reactions. Taking deep breaths and grounding oneself by focusing on sensory details (such as something to hear, touch, or smell) can help calm the body’s fight-or-flight response. 

2. Communicate with the team 

It is essential to inform the manager and any colleagues involved in the case as soon as possible. This allows the team to adjust the treatment plan and take measures to minimize harm. 

3. Contact your indemnity insurance 

Indemnity insurance providers, such as the AVMA PLIT, offer guidance and support after an error. Consulting with them can help navigate potential complaints while providing reassurance and perspective from experienced professionals. 

4. Be honest with the client 

While it may feel tempting to downplay or hide the mistake, honesty is crucial. Clients value transparency. Offering a genuine explanation, a sincere apology, and assurances that the issue will be addressed can help preserve trust. 

5. Assess the system 

The team should review the systems and protocols that contributed to the mistake. By approaching the situation without judgment, they can identify areas for improvement and reduce the risk of similar errors in the future. 

Tips to recover emotionally 

Mistakes can take an emotional toll on veterinary professionals. The following strategies can aid recovery: 

• Practice self-compassion: Mistakes are part of being human. Veterinary professionals should be gentle with themselves during the recovery process. 

• Seek support: Talking with trusted colleagues, friends, or family members can be helpful. Additionally, resources like Vets4Vets provide confidential peer support specifically for veterinarians. 

• Participate in debriefs: Both immediate (“hot”) and delayed (“cold”) debriefs with team members can facilitate emotional processing and professional learning. 

• Focus on growth: Mistakes, though difficult, can spark positive change. Teams may use these experiences to improve communication, establish peer support programs, or refine protocols. 

Enhancing knowledge to reduce future mistakes 

While non-technical factors often contribute to errors, maintaining up-to-date clinical knowledge builds confidence and supports decision-making under pressure. Here’s how veterinary professionals can continue to grow: 

• Identify knowledge gaps: Pinpoint areas of weakness and focus professional development efforts on those topics. 

• Choose suitable continuing education: Options such as webinars, conferences, or self-paced courses allow veterinarians to learn in a way that fits their lifestyle. 

• Start a clinical club: Regular case discussions or knowledge-sharing sessions can strengthen team expertise and cohesion. 

Improving systems to prevent veterinary mistakes 

Preventing mistakes requires a focus on systemic improvement rather than individual blame: 

• Cultivate a positive workplace culture: A blame-free culture encourages curiosity and open dialogue, making it easier to address systemic issues. 

• Prioritize wellbeing: A team that is rested, supported, and mentally well-equipped can provide more consistent patient care. 

• Commit to quality improvement: Regular audits and protocol reviews help teams identify gaps and ensure best practices are followed. 

Seeking support when overwhelmed 

Veterinarians struggling to recover from mistakes should reach out for support. Colleagues, friends, family members, or professional organizations such as Vets4Vets offer valuable resources. Vets4Vets provides confidential peer support from professionals who understand the unique challenges of veterinary medicine. 

Final thoughts 

Veterinary mistakes are a difficult but inevitable part of the profession. By focusing on continuing education, improving systems, and seeking support, veterinarians can grow from these experiences and reduce the likelihood of future errors. 

Taking CE is a great way to build confidence and enhance clinical skills. Consider our range of veterinary CE courses designed to help professionals strengthen their practice and achieve excellence in patient care.