Learning Logs: What is a Learning Event?

In March 2018 the GMC determined that the term Significant Event will refer exclusively to events which reach a GMC threshold of potential or actual serious harm to patients, currently referred to as Significant Untoward Incidents, Critical Incidents, Serious Incidents or GMC-level Significant Events.

Significant Events must be reflected on by a Trainee and the new format allows clarification of which events have been identified as being in this category, through an additional drop down box in a new Learning Event entry, for when the threshold is met.

This will enable easier checking in relation to Form R (England, Wales & Northern Ireland ) or SOAR (Scotland) forms. The analysis of events which do not reach the GMC threshold but present opportunity for learning, routinely undertaken in general practice as a QI activity, will be referred to as Learning Events Analysis and will use this format. This might include events which represent some risk and learning, which may not have a serious outcome but highlight issues which could be handled with greater clinical effectiveness and patient safety, and from which lessons could be learnt.

An entry under Learning Event Analysis would normally involve sharing information within the team and demonstrating learning. Areas for further learning and development should be reflected in the Trainee’s Personal Development Plans.

Compliments received by Trainees do not fit within this category. They should be included in a Reflection on Feedback entry.