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Published on: February 16, 2011
Nurse Leader Attitudes and Beliefs Regarding Medical Errors
Marie M Prothero1, Katherine Huefner, Madeline Sorhus
1Author Affiliations: Assistant Professor (Dr Prothero) and Registered Nurses (Huefner and Sorhus), College of Nursing, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.
Objective:
This study aimed to explore nurse leader attitudes and beliefs about medical errors.
Background:
The perfectibility model suggests errors are avoidable if nurses are trained and follow safety guidelines. This impacts how nurse leaders approach medical errors. Nurse leaders (NLs) may be the first person to whom a nurse reports an error. Leaders support nurses through the investigation process and subsequent recovery.
Methods:
A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted to determine NL attitudes toward medical errors using the Medical Error Attitude Scale (MEAS).
Results:
MEAS scores were high in all categories. Medical error perception was significant for NLs with institutional support programs and when compared with job titles. Medical error approach and perception were significant for NLs with direct reports who had committed a medical error.
Conclusion:
This study provides insight into NLs' views on medical errors, awareness of NLs who have had nurses involved in medical errors, and formal caregiver support programs.
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