A critical appraisal of what organisational approaches are pivotal to improve patient safety

Background: Patient safety remains a priority for healthcare organisations globally. There remains little consensus regarding the extent of this issue and the resultant impact on both individuals and communities. Aim: Our study aims to provide healthcare organisations and decision makers with increased information regarding predictive risk factors to enhance patient safety, and develop an organisational culture of safety. Methods: This paper reviews current literature regarding patient safety and presents predictive risk factors and recommendations for healthcare organisations globally to measure and monitor patient safety. Results: Three categories of organisational factors promoting safety culture were identified – Focusing on system/culture, management support and team work and event reporting. Conclusions: This review strove to identify and discuss the predictive risk factors for patient safety and support the importance of a positive organisational culture and strong leadership in monitoring and reducing patient care errors and improving patient care in healthcare setting.