Medical Errors and Barriers to Reporting in Ten Hospitals in Southern Iran
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Medical Errors and Barriers to Reporting in Ten Hospitals in Southern Iran
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Mohammad Khammarnia, Ramin Ravangard, Eshagh Barfar, Fatemeh Setoodehzadeh
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Medical Errors and Barriers to Reporting in Ten Hospitals in Southern Iran
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Medical errors (MEs) pose a significant threat to patient safety and are a concern worldwide, particularly within healthcare systems in both developed and developing nations. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of MEs in public hospitals in Shiraz, Iran, along with the barriers to reporting such errors. The research highlighted the high frequency of MEs, particularly in large hospitals during morning shifts, and underscored the need for effective reporting mechanisms to improve patient safety.
Systematic Errors: A Major Concern
The findings revealed that a significant portion of the recorded MEs (27.1%) was attributed to systematic errors, which in turn, were correlated with various factors including hospital wards, shifts, and personnel roles. Notably, the largest hospital accounted for nearly 55% of the total MEs reported. Nurses were identified as the primary group reporting errors, with a substantial number occurring during morning shifts when the workload is typically heavier. These systematic errors highlight underlying issues within the healthcare setting, such as staffing levels, training, and organizational communication, which require targeted interventions to mitigate risks associated with medical care.
Conclusion
The study concluded that MEs are prevalent in Shiraz public hospitals, especially in larger institutions and morning shifts, with individual and organizational factors acting as significant barriers to error reporting. The high incidence of systematic errors calls for a reform in healthcare practices, including enhanced training for medical staff, improved communication systems, and supportive reporting cultures that can facilitate a more transparent environment for addressing MEs. Implementing these strategies could vastly reduce the occurrence of MEs, thereby enhancing overall patient safety in the healthcare system. Further research is needed to explore effective interventions and evaluate their impact on reducing medical errors.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the aim of the study conducted in Iran?
The study aimed to describe medical errors (MEs) and barriers to reporting them in public hospitals located in Shiraz, Iran, thereby highlighting major challenges in patient safety within the healthcare system.
What was the total number of medical errors recorded?
A total of 4,379 medical errors were recorded across the 10 Shiraz public hospitals during the study period, indicating a significant concern regarding patient safety in these facilities.
What are the barriers to reporting medical errors identified in the study?
The study identified individual and organisational factors as major barriers to reporting medical errors, including fear of repercussions and inadequate training, which hinder the transparency necessary for improving patient safety.
Which shifts experienced the highest frequency of medical errors?
The morning shift observed the highest frequency of medical errors (55%), likely due to increased workload and rapid pace of tasks, which can impact staff performance and lead to mistakes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medical Errors and Barriers to Reporting in Ten Hospitals in Southern Iran”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Table:
Table refers to a structured arrangement of data, often used in research to present findings systematically. In the context of medical errors, tables can clarify the frequency, types, and patterns of errors, aiding healthcare professionals in identifying trends and contributing factors. This facilitates better understanding and informed decision-making in patient safety efforts.
2) Study (Studying):
Study signifies an investigation or examination of a subject, often through systematic observation or experimentation. In healthcare research, studies are essential for identifying problems, analyzing data, and proposing solutions to improve practices, such as addressing medical errors. They are pivotal for advancing knowledge and implementing changes that enhance patient safety.
3) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard of something, particularly concerning its ability to satisfy requirements. In healthcare, quality is critical in ensuring patient safety and satisfaction. High-quality patient care minimizes medical errors, improves outcomes, and fosters trust between patients and providers. Thus, assessing quality is essential for continual improvement in healthcare environments.
4) Training:
Training involves the process of teaching or learning skills and knowledge necessary for performing specific tasks. In healthcare, effective training for medical staff can significantly reduce the prevalence of medical errors by equipping them with the competencies to perform duties accurately and confidently, ultimately enhancing patient care and safety.
5) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the information, understanding, and skills acquired through experience or education. In the context of healthcare, possessing adequate knowledge is fundamental for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and prevent medical errors. Continuous education and training are vital for keeping staff updated on best practices and innovations in patient care.
6) Science (Scientific):
Science involves systematic study through observation and experimentation, aiming to acquire and analyze knowledge. In healthcare, scientific inquiry drives innovations in treatments, understanding of diseases, and improvement of patient safety practices. A scientific approach is key to identifying root causes of medical errors and developing effective interventions to mitigate risks.
7) Drug:
Drug refers to a substance used to diagnose, treat, or prevent illness. In healthcare, understanding drug interactions, side effects, and appropriate administration is crucial to prevent medical errors. Adequate training and knowledge regarding pharmaceuticals among healthcare professionals can lead to improved patient safety and reduced incidence of medication-related errors.
8) Rules:
Rules are established guidelines or principles governing behavior or actions. In healthcare, rules play a vital role in ensuring standard practices and protocols are followed, especially concerning patient safety. Adhering to rules helps minimize errors and creates a structured environment where healthcare professionals can operate safely and effectively.
9) Death:
Death represents the cessation of life and is a critical consideration in healthcare. Medical errors can lead to preventable deaths, emphasizing the importance of safety practices. Understanding and addressing the causes of medical errors are essential to improve patient outcomes and reduce fatalities within healthcare systems.
10) Fear:
Fear is an emotional response to perceived threats or danger. In healthcare, fear of punishment or blame can deter staff from reporting medical errors, hindering the improvement of safety practices. Fostering a supportive environment that addresses fear is crucial for encouraging open communication and effective error reporting.
11) Observation:
Observation is the act of monitoring or examining something carefully. In healthcare, observation is vital for assessing patient conditions and identifying potential risks. Through careful observation, healthcare professionals can detect early signs of medical errors, facilitating timely interventions to enhance patient safety and care quality.
12) Teaching:
Teaching involves imparting knowledge and skills to others. In healthcare, effective teaching is essential for training healthcare professionals on best practices and techniques. Continuous education and training can help prevent medical errors by keeping staff informed and skilled in the latest healthcare methodologies and safety procedures.
13) Learning:
Learning refers to the acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience or study. In healthcare, a culture of learning is vital to improve practices and reduce errors. Encouraging healthcare professionals to embrace lifelong learning leads to better decision-making, enhanced patient safety, and continual development within the healthcare field.
14) Weaver:
Weaver typically refers to a person engaged in weaving fabrics but in a medical context, it can signify someone responsible for creating intricate systems or protocols in healthcare. Applying systematic approaches can help identify medical errors and improve patient care by ensuring that care delivery processes are both effective and safe.
15) Nature:
Nature refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of something. In healthcare, understanding the nature of medical errors—such as their causes and frequency—is essential for developing strategies to address them. Recognizing the underlying factors contributes to creating a safer healthcare environment for both patients and healthcare providers.
16) Reliability:
Reliability refers to the consistency and dependability of a process or service. In healthcare, ensuring the reliability of reporting systems for medical errors is crucial to creating a culture of safety. Reliable data collection enables healthcare organizations to analyze trends, implement improvements, and ultimately enhance patient care and outcomes.
17) Discussion:
Discussion involves a dialogue or exchange of ideas about a particular topic. In healthcare, discussions about medical errors can lead to better understanding, shared experiences among staff, and collaborative efforts to enhance patient safety. Open discussions facilitate the development of protocols and address barriers to reporting errors effectively.
18) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth, progress, or advancement. In healthcare, developing effective strategies for error reporting and patient safety is essential. Ongoing developments—including training programs, protocols, and technologies—are necessary to adapt to changing healthcare landscapes and reduce the likelihood of medical errors.
19) Gathering:
Gathering indicates the collection of information or data. In healthcare, gathering data on medical errors is crucial for identifying trends and developing strategies to prevent future occurrences. Systematic data collection helps inform decision-making, enhances safety protocols, and improves overall patient care by focusing on areas needing attention.
20) Activity:
Activity signifies a specific action or task undertaken by individuals or groups. In healthcare, various activities are essential, including monitoring patients, reporting errors, and pursuing professional development. Engaging in meaningful activities related to error management is pivotal in fostering a culture of safety and improving healthcare practices.
21) Relative:
Relative refers to the connection or comparison between things. In healthcare, assessing relative risks of medical errors helps prioritize interventions and allocate resources effectively. Understanding the relative significance of various errors guides healthcare organizations in implementing targeted strategies to enhance patient safety and clinical practices.
22) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition of a bodily part or system. In healthcare, the prevalence and impact of diseases underscore the importance of error prevention strategies to improve patient outcomes. Understanding the interactions between diseases and treatment approaches is vital for mitigating medical errors in patient care.
23) Cancer:
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. In healthcare settings, treating cancer can lead to complex care scenarios, making it imperative for staff to be vigilant about potential medical errors. Comprehensive training and error reporting systems are crucial to ensure safe and effective cancer treatment.
24) Visit:
Visit signifies an encounter between a patient and healthcare provider, often for diagnoses or treatment. Patient visits present opportunities to identify potential medical errors, requiring healthcare professionals to be attentive to detail. Ensuring thorough evaluations during healthcare visits enhances patient safety and reduces the likelihood of errors occurring.
25) Crowd:
Crowd reflects a large number of people in a space. In healthcare, crowded environments can increase stress on personnel and lead to increased medical errors. Effective management of patient flow and staffing can help mitigate risks associated with crowded conditions, enhancing patient safety and care quality.
26) Line:
Line can refer to a queue or order. In a healthcare context, lines can signify patient wait times, impacting the quality of care delivered. Managing patient flow effectively and reducing wait times are crucial for promoting satisfaction and minimizing errors that may occur due to rushed interactions with patients.
27) Hand:
Hand symbolizes action, skill, or care. In healthcare, the hands-on approach is vital for performing tasks with precision. Ensuring healthcare providers maintain skillful hand techniques and practices is essential for preventing medical errors, safeguarding patient safety, and delivering effective care efficiently.
28) Post:
Post denotes a position or message regarding a situation. In healthcare, posting data about medical errors can foster transparency, encourage communication among staff, and highlight areas needing improvement. Publicly sharing findings helps create a culture of safety, driving efforts to learn from errors and enhance patient care.