The critical importance of non-technical skills in developing surgical teams in the digital era

Abstract

Human errors are common in both personal and professional settings. Human factors encompass how individuals and teams interact with each other, their environment, and technology. Fatigue, hydration, nutrition, and stress significantly impact surgical performance and patient safety. Regular breaks, proper hydration, balanced nutrition, and stress management enhance cognitive function and team dynamics, thereby reducing errors. Surgical technology including robot-assisted surgery, presents unique challenges that can increase the propensity of error, particularly in communication. This necessitates further system and workplace optimization to minimize risks. Digital technology helps reduce medical errors and ensures prompt access to senior support. Platforms like WhatsApp enable trainees to quickly contact consultants, thus enhancing patient safety. This strategy is associated with reduced workload, improved trainee support and reliable imaging review. However, compliance with data protection and information governance is crucial and further work may be required to develop secure platforms that maintain confidentiality and data safety. This review examines the prevalence of medical errors and delves into factors and strategies to mitigate them, thereby enhancing teamwork and patient safety.