Processes to Create a Culture of Surgical Patient Safety

This article discusses the processes, interventions, and methods by which health care systems can change the culture of their workplace to promote safety. The importance of this culture shift is discussed, as well as an organizational approach, highlighting the importance of investment of time and resources to the cause. Efforts must include an educational focus on patient safety where a culture of patient safety is emphasized. This attitude along with several specific key interventions, including, measurement, teamwork, briefings, checklists, and developmental infrastructure, are discussed.