This article explores the links between organisational culture and patient safety. The key elements associated with a safety culture, most notably effective leadership, good teamwork, a culture of learning and fairness, and fostering patient-centred care, are discussed. The broader aspects of a systems approach to promoting quality and safety, with specific reference to clinical governance, human factors, and ergonomics principles and methods, are also briefly explored, particularly in light of the report of the public inquiry into care failings at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust.
Nursing Standard. 27, 43, 50-56. doi: 10.7748/ns2013.06.27.43.50.e7280
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to double blind peer review
Received: 01 December 2012
Accepted: 11 March 2013
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