In the last 15 years we've seen a multitude of improvement programs and projects to improve the safety of patient care in healthcare. However, the full potential of these efforts and especially those that seek to address an entire system has not yet been reached. A different way of thinking is needed in terms of changing behavior and practices as well as processes and systems. If we are to save lives and significantly reduce patient harm, we need to adopt a holistic, systematic approach that extends across cultural, technological and procedural boundaries. Through tips and examples, the author describes the lessons learned in working at a national level in the NHS in patient safety.
-
Based on over 20 years of work in patient safety at a hospital and national system level
-
Uses lessons from the science of implementation and campaigning methods to improve the safety of patient care
-
Provides examples of practical actions that can be immediately implemented and includes new and innovative approaches to creating a safety culture such as the use of safety conversations
-
Provides important examples for the many professionals who work in patient safety but are struggling to make a difference in their current situation
