What does "patient safety" refer to in healthcare administration?

"Patient safety" in healthcare administration refers to the prevention of errors and adverse effects related to patient care. This concept emphasizes creating an environment that minimizes risks and ensures that patients receive safe and effective care. It includes implementing protocols, guidelines, and practices designed to avoid preventable harm, such as medication errors, surgical mistakes, and infections acquired during healthcare delivery.

Focusing on patient safety involves not only identifying and mitigating risks but also fostering a culture that encourages reporting and learning from errors. By prioritizing this aspect of healthcare, organizations can enhance the quality of care, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately build trust with patients and their families. This principle underlies numerous regulatory standards and accreditation requirements within the healthcare system, as patient safety is a fundamental pillar of effective healthcare delivery.