Factors Influencing Patient Safety Activities Among Emergency Nurses

With the rise in chronic diseases and an aging population, the complexity of hospital environments has increased, leading to a higher incidence of patient safety events. Improving patient safety and minimizing safety-related issues have become essential responsibilities for emergency department health care professionals. This study, using a cross-sectional survey design, aimed to explore the factors influencing emergency nurses' patient safety nursing activities, focusing on safety control, patient safety knowledge and attitude (key components of patient safety competency), patient safety culture, and demographic and educational factors.

This study analyzed data from 165 emergency nurses across 8 hospitals in South Korea, including 3 regional emergency medical centers, 3 local emergency medical centers, and 2 local emergency medical facilities. The data collection took place between February 22 and August 28, 2021.

Stepwise multiple regression analysis identified several key factors that influence patient safety nursing activities among emergency nurses. These factors include safety control and patient safety knowledge and attitude, both of which are components of patient safety competency. Other influential factors were receiving 11 or more sessions of patient safety-related education, maintaining a strong patient safety culture, engaging in monthly or biannual patient safety education, and being married. Together, these factors explained 69% of the variance in patient safety nursing activities.

To improve patient safety nursing activities among emergency nurses, targeted strategies should focus on enhancing safety control and patient safety knowledge. Raising awareness of patient safety is also essential. In addition, organizational-level efforts-such as policies and procedures aimed at fostering a culture of patient safety-are crucial for sustained improvement.