QUALITY AND PATIENT SAFETY Perception of patient safety differs by clinical area and discipline

Editor’s key points † Perception of patient safety is an important component of organizational structure essential to quality improvement, but is complex and difficult to study. † This study examined the influence of environment (operating theatre or intensive care unit) and discipline on organizational factors (latent risk factors) in four university hospitals using a new survey instrument. † Differences in perceptions of patient safety between various clinical areas and disciplines are important considerations in designing measures to improve safety. Background. Current thinking about patient safety emphasizes the relationship between organizational factors, that is, latent risk factors (LRFs) and patient safety. This study explores the influence of the operating theatre (OT), intensive care unit (ICU), and disciplines on ratings of LRFs. If we have an understanding of the contribution made by these factors, we can identify significant points from which we can promote a safe environment.