A room of errors approach to analyzing beginning nursing students' safety recognition

Background

Errors in healthcare remain one of the leading causes of death in the United States each year. Nurses are an integral part of the healthcare team and spend the most direct-care time with patients, placing them at the forefront of error mitigation. This study aims to evaluate the beginning nursing students' awareness of safety issues at the bedside.

Method

Thirty-four students independently completed a “Room of Errors” simulation in week two of the first semester of a four-year baccalaureate nursing program. A repeat simulation was completed in week 13 with only 25 students participating, and a paired t-test was used to compare the results of those who completed both experiences.

Result

Although the average number of errors identified increased from 9.68 to 14.64 out of 42 (p=<0.001), the mean number of errors found per student remained low.

Discussion

While statistical significance is present, the number of errors not identified remains high. Continued research on best practices for implementing safety standards into nursing programs is necessary.