THE ROLE OF PATIENT SAFETY CULTURE IN REDUCING ADVERSE EVENTS IN HEALTHCARE SETTINGS

Abstract

The culture of patient safety within healthcare organizations plays a critical role in reducing adverse events and enhancing overall patient outcomes. This study examines the impact of a positive patient safety culture on the frequency and severity of adverse events in healthcare settings. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of recent empirical studies, this research highlights key components of safety culture, such as leadership commitment, open communication, teamwork, and staff accountability. The findings reveal that organizations with a strong safety culture experience significantly lower rates of adverse events, including medication errors, infections, and surgical complications. Additionally, the study explores barriers to fostering a robust safety culture, including inadequate reporting systems and resistance to change. By addressing these challenges and implementing structured safety practices, healthcare facilities can improve patient care, reduce preventable harm, and build trust among healthcare providers and patients. This research underscores the importance of investing in safety culture initiatives as a strategic approach to achieving high reliability and excellence in patient care.