Document Detail


Improving patient safety: lessons from rock climbing.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  22225892     Owner:  NLM     Status:  In-Data-Review    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Background:  How to improve patient safety remains an intractable problem, despite large investment and some successes. Context:  Academics have argued that the root of the problem is a lack of a comprehensive 'safety culture' in hospitals. Other safety-critical industries such as commercial aviation invest heavily in staff training to develop such a culture, but comparable programmes are almost entirely absent from the health care sector. Innovation:  In rock climbing and many other dangerous activities, the 'buddy system' is used to ensure that safety systems are adhered to despite adverse circumstances. This system involves two or more people using simple checks and clear communication to prevent problems causing harm. Using this system as an example could provide a simple, original and entertaining way of introducing medical students to the idea that human factors are central to ensuring patient safety. Implications:  Teaching the buddy system may improve understanding and acceptance of other patient safety initiatives, and could also be used by junior doctors as a tool to improve the safety of their practice.
Authors:
Nic Robertson
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  The clinical teacher     Volume:  9     ISSN:  1743-498X     ISO Abbreviation:  Clin Teach     Publication Date:  2012 Feb 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2012-01-09     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  101227511     Medline TA:  Clin Teach     Country:  England    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  41-4     Citation Subset:  IM    
Copyright Information:
© Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2012.
Affiliation:
Intercalating Medical Student, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK.
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