Psychological Safety Among Interprofessional Pediatric Oncology Teams in Germany: A Nationwide Survey

Psychological safety (PS) is essential for teamwork, communication, and patient safety in complex healthcare environments. In pediatric oncology, interprofessional collaboration occurs under high emotional and organizational demands. Low PS may increase stress, burnout, and adverse events. To assess PS in pediatric oncology teams across Germany, a survey including items on communication, workload, and error management culture was conducted among members of the "Gesellschaft für Paediatrische Onkologie und Haematologie" (GPOH, Society for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology).

In October 2025, healthcare professionals from GPOH member institutions completed an online survey on PS. The 38-item questionnaire addressed PS and related aspects like communication, teamwork, leadership, workload, error management, and team climate. Responses were rated on a six-point Likert scale and analyzed descriptively and by subgroups.

A total of 273 professionals completed the survey (Cronbach's α = 0.89). Teams reported a respectful, safety-oriented climate but noted challenges with workload, onboarding, and feedback. Only two-thirds indicated that mistakes in patient care were discussed openly. Physicians reported more open communication and constructive problem handling, while nurses experienced greater stress and more dismissive behavior toward "different" colleagues. Leaders showed higher PS, whereas lower PS across all domains was observed among participants who had seriously considered changing their jobs. Job satisfaction closely correlated with PS, particularly with open communication, trust, and respect.

The findings emphasize that PS is both essential and improvable in pediatric oncology teams; strengthening leadership, feedback, and interprofessional reflection may enhance staff well-being, retention, and patient safety across this high-stakes field.