Asian Nurs Res.  2019 Aug;13(3):200-208. 10.1016/j.anr.2019.05.002.

Nurses' Perceptions Regarding Disclosure of Patient Safety Incidents in Korea: A Qualitative Study

• Choi EY
• Pyo J
• Ock M
• Lee SI

• KMID: 2457645
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.anr.2019.05.002

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to determine nurses' perceptions of the disclosure of patient safety incidents (DPSI), which is known to be effective in reducing medical litigation and improving the credibility of medical professionals.
METHODS
Three focus group discussions were conducted with 20 nurses using semistructured guidelines. Transcribed content including a record of the progress of the focus group discussions and researchers' notes were analyzed using directed content analysis.
RESULTS
Most participants thought that DPSI is necessary because of its effectiveness and for ethical justification. However, participants held varied opinions regarding the primary responsibility of DPSI. Participants agreed on the necessity of explaining the incident and expressing sympathy, apologizing, and promising appropriate compensation that are chief components of DPSI. However, they were concerned that it implies a definitive medical error. A closed organizational culture, fear of deteriorating relationships with patients, and concerns about additional work burdens were suggested as barriers to DPSI. However, the establishment of DPSI guidelines and improving the hospital organization culture were raised as facilitators of DPSI.
CONCLUSION
Most nurse participants acknowledged the need for DPSI. To promote DPSI, it is necessary to develop guidelines for DPSI and provide the appropriate training. Improving the hospital organization culture is also critical to facilitate DPSI.

Keyword

disclosure; medical errors; patient rights; patient safety

MeSH Terms

Compensation and Redress
Disclosure*
Focus Groups
Humans
Jurisprudence
Korea*
Medical Errors
Organizational Culture
Patient Rights
Patient Safety*