The findings of this research point to the importance of staff buy-in and a team-driven approach to safety.

Topics:

• Introduction to research paper Seven features of safety in maternity units
• The premise of the study
• Understanding the process behind data collection for this study
• The Finding of the paper
• Six Features/themes of patient safety
• Rules & procedures vs social control mechanisms
• Patient feedback
• Refining the Safety findings

1. Commitment to safety and improvement
2. Staff improving working processes
3. Technical competence supported by formal training and informal learning
4. Teamwork, cooperation, and positive working relationships
5. Reinforcing, safe, ethical behaviors
6. Systems and processes designed for safety -regularly reviewed and optimized.
7. Effective coordination and the ability to mobilize quickly

• Generalization of processes isn’t always helpful

Quotes:

“The forces that create positive conditions for safety in frontline work may be at least partially invisible to those who create them.” - Dr. David Provan

“Unlike last time, we’re now explicitly mentioning patients’ families, so last time it was ‘just do patient feedback’, now we’re talking about families being encouraged to share their experience.” - Dr. Drew Rae

“These seven [Safety Findings] may or may not be relevant for other domains or contexts but the message in the paper is - go and find out for yourself what is relevant and important in your context.” - Dr. David Provan

Resources:

Griffith University Safety Science Innovation Lab

The Safety of Work Podcast

Seven features of safety in maternity units -Research Paper

The Safety Of Work - Episode 14

Feedback@safetyofwork.com

Episode 75 - How Stop-Work Decisions are Made