At IHI, we are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse and dedicated health care professional. His loss, and that of Renée Good, has been felt profoundly by communities across the country. We join health care professionals and individuals nationwide in mourning their passing and extend heartfelt condolences to their families and all who are grieving, seeking comfort, and trying to understand and prevent such tragedies in the future.
We recognize the profound impact events like these have on public trust and people’s sense of safety and well‑being. Healthy communities depend on compassion, accountability, stability, and shared respect for the rule of law. When these foundations are disrupted, health and well‑being are at risk. IHI affirms that any loss of life is a profound tragedy, and that protecting people’s ability to seek and provide care without fear of violence or harm is essential to a healthy society.
Through our long-standing work in patient safety, we have learned that when harm occurs, honest reporting, rigorous review, transparent learning, and application of lessons learned are indispensable for preventing future tragedies. For this reason, we support transparent and independent reviews of these events to advance understanding, strengthen accountability, and promote healing.
We urge leaders at all levels to advance policies and practices that safeguard public safety and ensure equitable access to care. IHI stands with partners across health care and community organizations who are working to prevent violence, reduce harm, address trauma, and build the conditions that allow every person to live with dignity, security, and hope.
This moment calls for empathy, clarity, and shared purpose. In alignment with our core values—courage, love, equity, trust, and impact—IHI remains committed to supporting the healing of those affected and to advancing the safety, dignity, and well‑being of all.
Respectfully,
Sylvia Trent-Adams, PhD, RN, FAAN, FNAP, ANEF
President and CEO, IHI
Gerald B. Hickson, MD
Board Chair, IHI