Nurse Leader Attitudes and Beliefs Regarding Medical Errors

Abstract

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore nurse leader attitudes and beliefs about medical errors. BACKGROUND The perfectibility model suggests errors are avoidable if nurses are trained and follow safety guidelines. This impacts how nurse leaders approach medical errors. Nurse leaders (NLs) may be the first person to whom a nurse reports an error. Leaders support nurses through the investigation process and subsequent recovery. METHODS A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted to determine NL attitudes toward medical errors using the Medical Error Attitude Scale (MEAS). RESULTS MEAS scores were high in all categories. Medical error perception was significant for NLs with institutional support programs and when compared with job titles. Medical error approach and perception were significant for NLs with direct reports who had committed a medical error. CONCLUSION This study provides insight into NLs' views on medical errors, awareness of NLs who have had nurses involved in medical errors, and formal caregiver support programs.

An Exploration of Nurses’ Attitudes and Beliefs on Reporting Medication Errors

“…Many factors identified as medication error reporting barriers are influenced by the perception of “safety culture” within the nursing units. Safety culture includes the values, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of the people within an organization that help shape responses to medical errors 27,28,29. Error reporting is a professional responsibility of every nurse.…”

“…Supporting and providing time for the nurse to complete reporting reinforces the importance of sharing and reporting near-miss events. Nurse leaders need to foster a positive environment where error reporting is supported, events can be discussed openly, and improvement opportunities can be identified 29. Within this safety culture, structures and processes that impede care can be addressed.…”

“…Safety culture includes the values, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of the people within an organization that help shape responses to medical errors. 27,28,29 Error reporting is a professional responsibility of every nurse. Organizations should provide nurses with education on how to identify medication errors, report errors, and improve the process of reporting.…”

“…Nurse leaders need to foster a positive environment where error reporting is supported, events can be discussed openly, and improvement opportunities can be identified. 29 Within this safety culture, structures and processes that impede care can be addressed. Using current communication structures (i.e., unit huddles, discussion at nursing practice council meetings, and staff meetings) to report errors models a positive unit culture for reporting.…”