Lessons learned from implementing a Human Factors programme into an NHS trust.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare quality improvement
• Human Factors engineering
• Patient safety science

Background:

• Growing interest in applying Human Factors (HF) principles within healthcare settings.
• Limited guidance exists on practically embedding HF into healthcare operations.
• Need for structured approaches to improve safety and wellbeing for staff and patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the SCReaM Human Factors (HF) and Team Resource Management (TRM) program.
• To embed practical HF application within an NHS Trust.
• To share lessons learned for future HF integration in healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a multi-strand program: rolling training, HF Projects, and HF Engineering.
• Utilizing systems thinking methodology across all program strands.
• Embedding the program within a National Health Service (NHS) Trust.

Main Results:

• The SCReaM program successfully integrated HF and TRM principles.
• Demonstrated practical application of HF to improve safety and wellbeing.
• Provided a reflective account of the integration approach.

Conclusions:

• The SCReaM program offers a viable model for embedding HF in healthcare.
• Systems thinking is crucial for successful HF integration.
• The approach provides valuable insights for future healthcare HF initiatives.