The nurse’s role in maintaining a culture of safety
In this discussion, emphasis is on awareness of client quality and safety and in particular what is a “culture of safety.”
Based on the review of the following websites at the Institute of Healthcare Improvement and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality answer the following questions.
What values ensure a culture of safety?
How can healthcare facilities establish a culture of safety?
What is the nurse’s role in maintaining a culture of safety?
Sample Solution
In addition to implementing safety strategies to improve safe patient care, leaders of a health care agency must also establish a culture of safety. A culture of safety reflects the behaviors, beliefs, and values within and across all levels of an organization as they relate to safety and clinical excellence, with a focus on people. The American Nurses Association further describes a culture of safety as one that includes openness and mutual respect when discussing safety concerns and solutions without shifting to individual blame. Key elements of a culture of safety in an organization include the establishment of safety as an organizational priority, teamwork, patient involvement, openness/transparency, and accountability (Lamb, Studdert, Bohmer, Berwick, & Brennan, 2003).
