A Quest for Patient Safety

Abstract

Patient safety is an integral component of a complete quality improvement program but is worth an independent exploration to bring attention to the continuing need to identify harm that is caused to patients that is potentially preventable. Studies have revealed the magnitude of patient safety issues throughout the globe. The World Health Organization noted that 134 million adverse events occur each year in hospitals and low and middle-income countries. One study revealed that of the nearly one million Medicare beneficiaries discharged from hospitals several years ago, about 1 in 7 experienced an adverse event. These adverse events may prolong the patient’s recovery, cost them their life, and add millions of dollars to the cost of care for all. Many healthcare professionals have devoted their time and attention to the mission of improving patient safety and it is a cause for which all patients, families, and clinicians can contribute.