From safety contract to safety agreement

Area of Science:

• Nursing Theory
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Communication

Background:

• The definition and application of safety contracts in healthcare are subjects of ongoing debate and confusion.
• Traditional safety contracts may lack practicality and patient-centeredness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a safety agreement model based on Orlando's Nursing Theory.
• To explore a more practical, concise, and patient-friendly approach to promoting patient safety.

Main Methods:

• The study conceptualizes a safety agreement framework.
• It emphasizes the integration of Orlando's Nursing Theory principles.

Main Results:

• A safety agreement, unlike a contract, focuses on identifying immediate patient safety needs.
• It aims to reduce patient distress through a strengthened nurse-patient relationship.
• The collaborative nurse-patient interaction is central to the agreement's value.

Conclusions:

• A safety agreement offers a more effective and accessible alternative to traditional safety contracts.
• The nurse-patient relationship, characterized by communication and collaboration, is paramount for patient safety.
• This approach enhances patient engagement and adherence to safety protocols.