System Safety in Healthcare

Abstract

Unsafe work practices can happen in many ways. The following lengthy list includes examples of potential causes: Excessive work for clinicians Too many unnecessary reports and requirements Over-dependence on technology Conflict between the need for professional autonomy and establishing the dynamically changing best processes Care delivery “silos” resulting from lack of interdepartmental teamwork Constant distractions and interruptions Too many policies and procedures, leading to a tendency to follow marginally effective methods Over-reliance on electronic medical tracking taking precedence over bedside discussions with patients Inattention to detail Lack of motivation to get, or resources for, a second opinion Quick diagnosis based on past observations Inadequate attention to medical equipment dangers Insufficient effort in infection prevention People pretending the negative would not happen to them Hospitals looking for quick profit Questionable alternate boards certifying physicians who may not be qualified A lack of passion for work Unfavorable workflows, such as labs located far from the emergency department A lack of clarity of what is required to assure patient safety Too much team consensus instead of challenging the quality of intervention