Collateral Damage: A Patient, a New Procedure and the Learning Curve

A Drink of Water

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Meanwhile, down in Pediatrics, they were preparing the groundwork for the launch of the Josie King Patient Safety Program. Josie King was 18 months old when she was taken to Hopkins after being scalded in a bathtub accident in February 2001, a year before Pam’s encounter with the culture of safety.

“She healed well and within weeks was scheduled for release.” Josie’s mother, Sorrel, writes on the Josie King Foundation website.

But something was wrong. Josie seemed to be very thirsty all the time, eagerly seeking moisture from any available source. Sorrell King knew her daughter was desperately thirsty, and she wanted to give her water, but was told she couldn’t. She deferred to the experts.

The little girl died from dehydration.