Creating a Culture of Safety

1.  What did I expect to learn about this topic before beginning the unit?
I expected to learn about how we as nurses can continue to maintain that culture of safety. What things I can do each day to keep myself safe, my coworkers safe, and my patients safe. This past week has been interesting at work regarding safety. A code green was called because of a patient who suffered from a TBI. It was a scary situation for many of us.

2.   What I actually learned:

       The discussion brought about some bad feelings in me. I was angry with the fact that the physician would not listen to the RN. I hope this never happens to me but I’m sure it will. In that moment, I have to take action in order to keep that patient safe. I’m glad I was able to discuss with my classmates what options we have. A culture of safety is created by utilizing the chain of command and other team members for support whether that is having the charge RN give pain meds to a patient you are unable to get to or for an insulin double check. It all helps with safety.

       The case study was another one that was so interesting and heartbreaking to learn about. Again, safety was an issue with this young boy who passes away. Members of the team were not communicating with the family, no clarification was ever done, and the possible complications and sometimes common complications of that procedure were never even considered. Education was not done or given to the family and the doctors and nurses really needed to brush up on this. Safety was compromised because members of the care team made a lot of simple mistakes.

       The critical thinking exercise helped me to understand that just because something has been done for a “long time” doesn’t mean it is the best. This semester the focus has been on EBP in some of my other classes. I think this is such an important thing to learn about and realize that I can make a difference, I can implement change, and I can use EBP in my practice as a nurse. EBP does affect safety. Most of the times, EBP is the safest practice.

3.  My feelings/experiences from the individual and team activities:

      I learned a lot about safety and creating a culture of safety this week. It was very impactful for me. Our discussion went well this week and we were all able to decide on what should be done in that situation. It is good to be able to use teamwork even though we are taking classes online.

4. How I will utilize the information learned in my nursing practice:

      Like I have previously stated, I have realized how I am able to create that culture of safety as a nurse. I can use EBP every day , be a patient advocate, use my resources, use the chain of command when/if necessary, and always trust myself and my instincts. This is a good reminder for me.

5. My personal feelings about the material covered:

Safety is always a great thing to be reminded of and learn about. I like the idea of creating a culture of safety. I think that is a very powerful phrase and something that can be implemented no matter where someone works.