What can be done next?
HDM teams up with experts to wrap up the 5-part series on patient safety by covering action leaders can take today to have an impact on patient safety tomorrow.
Join HDM and following list of experts as they wrap up the 5-part series on patient safety by covering action leaders can take today to have an impact on patient safety tomorrow.
- • Dr. Tim McDonald, Chief Patient Safety and Risk Officer, RLDatix,
- • Nicole Kerkenbush, Chief Nursing and Performance Officer, Monument Health
- • Patricia McGaffigan, IHI Vice President, Safety; and Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety President
- • Kenneth R. Deans, President and CEO, Health Sciences South Carolina
- • Mitchell Josephson, CEO, Health Data Management
Panelists highlighted key themes to maintain a patient-focused culture. The conversation revolved around the importance of addressing regulatory requirements that sometimes conflict with patient safety, prioritizing workforce safety and well-being, and following the National Action Plan to advance patient safety.
Panelist Nicole brought up the issue of regulatory requirements that may be detrimental to patient safety, using the example of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) not approved for hospital use. This can lead to unnecessary point-of-care testing, which introduces potential harm. The panelists agreed that healthcare organizations and regulatory bodies should collaborate to overcome such issues.
The discussion then focused on the need for a supportive and safe environment for healthcare workers. The panelists emphasized that creating peer support programs and ensuring workforce well-being are essential to providing safe care to patients.
Ken highlighted the Safer Together National Action Plan developed by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), which outlines four foundational areas to advance patient safety: culture, leadership and governance, patient and family engagement, learning systems, and workforce safety and well-being. The panelists encouraged the audience to read the plan and utilize its organizational assessment tool to supplement existing safety strategies.
Lastly, Patricia advised healthcare professionals to be proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement by monitoring workarounds and overrides, which could indicate flaws in the system. By understanding the reasons behind these actions, organizations can address potential issues before they harm patients or staff.