An Overview of Nursing Errors Using the Taxonomy of Error, Root Cause Analysis, and Practice-Responsibility Research...

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Nursing errors are a significant concern for patient safety and care quality.
• Effective methods for error recognition and analysis are crucial in nursing practice.
• The Taxonomy of Error, Root Cause Analysis, and Practice-Responsibility (TERCAP) tool is designed for systematic classification and analysis of nursing errors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review nursing errors using the TERCAP instrument.
• To evaluate the applicability, strengths, and areas for improvement of the TERCAP tool.
• To assess the current use and potential impact of the TERCAP tool in healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus).
• Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles, quantitative/qualitative data, and English-language publications utilizing the TERCAP tool.
• Data extraction and analysis focused on the tool's validity, reliability, impact on patient outcomes, and clinical integration.

Main Results:

• A limited number of studies currently employ the TERCAP instrument, indicating its nascent implementation.
• The TERCAP tool provides a structured framework for error categorization and root cause analysis, potentially enhancing patient safety.
• Identified challenges include inconsistent tool application, integration difficulties with electronic health records, and the need for further validation.

Conclusions:

• The TERCAP tool demonstrates potential for improving nursing error reporting and analysis.
• Nurses' perceptions and training needs are critical factors influencing the tool's effectiveness.
• Further research is essential to validate the TERCAP tool, optimize its integration, and understand its long-term impact on patient safety and safety culture.