DETAILS MATTER

During a recent annual health screening, the nurse at all four stations asked me my name and date of birth for identification purposes. While it did not bother me, I quietly wondered if this detail was necessary since I only walked about ten feet from the previous location. Did they think my answer would change?

I went to the hospital for a complete physical and the same thing happened. Answering the same questions repeatedly can be annoying, but it also has its purpose.

Today I heard a story on the radio about a man having surgery to remove a kidney. The problem is they removed it from the wrong man. They hospital failed to follow protocol. They asked for the name of the patient but not the date of birth. The two patients shared the same name but were several years apart in age.

I suppose the man missing his healthy kidney removed would have preferred to answer one more repetitive question.

I see people take shortcuts or avoid certain details in their jobs. They do not understand the reason for some of the details. They would prefer to finish the task quicker hoping to accomplish more, but at what cost?

Even in writing and texting, people leave out important details that can change the meaning of the whole statement. “Do not forget to eat young children” is much scarier than “Do not forget to eat, young children.” One is a crime, and the other could be a healthy reminder.

Details can save lives or make things last longer. Routinely changing oil in your car and ensuring proper inflation of tires can extend the life of the vehicle. Taking 2 seconds to put on your seatbelt can save your life.

I have seen job details removed from procedures because no one knew or understood their purpose only to find out by some problem showing up years later.  Some of these problems required those details to be reinstated but would also mean that years of neglect made for redoing jobs that had been completed in the past. This cost workhours and a lot of money.

Even in our personal lives, details can make a difference. Details such as saying thank you, listening, or opening a door for someone can make someone feel appreciated and change the outlook of their day.

Paying attention to details may not sound glorious, but it can make a significant difference in the outcome.