Safety coaches in radiology: decreasing human error and minimizing patient harm

Pediatr Radiol. 2010 Sep;40(9):1545-51. doi: 10.1007/s00247-010-1704-9. Epub 2010 Jun 2.

Abstract

Successful programs to improve patient safety require a component aimed at improving safety culture and environment, resulting in a reduced number of human errors that could lead to patient harm. Safety coaching provides peer accountability. It involves observing for safety behaviors and use of error prevention techniques and provides immediate feedback. For more than a decade, behavior-based safety coaching has been a successful strategy for reducing error within the context of occupational safety in industry. We describe the use of safety coaches in radiology. Safety coaches are an important component of our comprehensive patient safety program.

MeSH terms

  • Communication
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Inservice Training
  • Leadership*
  • Organizational Culture
  • Peer Group*
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care*
  • Radiology Department, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • Safety Management / methods*