Premature diagnostic closure: an avoidable type of error

A well-developed clinical interview makes it possible to adequately focus the diagnosis. However, cognitive psychology shows that mistakes are made when the persons face complex problems, such as those faced when making a diagnosis, especially if time or resources are limited. The main cause of failures in clinical reasoning is using "cognitive shortcuts". Among them, premature closure is a key factor triggering a diagnostic error. Cognitive errors are predictable and thus, it is possible to learn strategies to reduce or avoid them. Knowing the main features of cognitive shortcuts and identifying those automatically used is the first step towards preventing errors or minimizing their consequences. (C) 2012 Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.