Anchoring Bias: Tales from the Front Line:

A thorough history and awareness of the unexpected help overcome anchoring bias.

Tales from the Front Line: Anchoring Bias

The medical notes say he has a swollen, red, painful wrist. As he is bed-bound, he requires a home visit—the differential lists cellulitis as the most likely diagnosis.  

“Did you hurt your wrist,” I say.

“No”

I look for any scratches or entry points that indicate infection. The notes state the wrist is warm, red, a…