Factors affecting nurses' perceptions of patient safety

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Research
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Nurses play a crucial role in patient care quality and safety.
• Understanding factors influencing nurses' perceptions is vital for healthcare improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine socioeconomic and organizational/system factors affecting nurses' perceptions of patient safety and quality.
• To identify key drivers of positive patient safety perceptions among nurses in Riyadh hospitals.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 566 registered nurses in five Riyadh hospitals.
• Data collected included demographics, managerial support, and information technology (IT) integration.
• Binary logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the data.

Main Results:

• Fewer visible errors, the ability to communicate suggestions, IT support and training, and a confidential error reporting system were associated with improved patient safety.
• These factors also increased the likelihood that nurses would use their own facility for care.

Conclusions:

• System factors such as feedback, suggestions, and error reporting significantly impact patient safety improvements.
• Nurse education in information systems positively affects safety perceptions.
• Healthcare leaders must consider these factors to foster a strong patient safety culture.