Perceptions of nurse managers regarding alarm fatigue among nurses in Malta: an exploratory study

Alarm fatigue has been identified as a patient safety concern. This study aimed to explore nurse managers' perceptions of alarm fatigue among nurses and their recommendations for improving clinical alarm management. Using a qualitative descriptive exploratory design, audio-recorded semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 nurse managers. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis, revealing five central themes: 'The power of alarm fatigue', 'Patient ramifications of alarm fatigue', 'External factors contributing to alarm fatigue', 'Mitigating alarm fatigue', and 'The impact of technology in health care'. The study concluded that addressing alarm fatigue is critical for improving both nurse wellbeing and patient safety. Solutions may include evidence-based clinical alarm protocols, the introduction of guidelines, and educational opportunities to help nurses understand alarm fatigue and take proactive steps to minimise and manage it.