Exploring Risk Management in Nursing Services to Improve Patient Safety

Abstract

Patient safety is a crucial aspect in improving the quality of healthcare services, particularly in nursing services that interact directly with patients. Risk management is essential for identifying, preventing, and controlling various potential risks that can lead to adverse events. This study aims to explore the implementation of risk management in nursing services as an effort to improve patient safety. The study employed a qualitative method with a descriptive qualitative design. Informants were selected using purposive sampling based on their involvement and experience in nursing services and patient safety. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, observation, and documentation. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis through coding, category grouping, theme identification, and data interpretation. Data validity was verified through source and technique triangulation and member checking. The results revealed five main themes: nurses' understanding of risk management and patient safety, risk identification and prevention in nursing services, communication and reporting of patient safety incidents, barriers to implementing risk management, and strategies for improving patient safety through strengthening a culture of safety. Barriers identified included workload, limited staff, suboptimal communication, time constraints, and concerns about the consequences of reporting incidents. Effective risk management requires nurse involvement, open communication, a supportive reporting system, ongoing training, and organizational and leadership support.