Perception of nurses about patient safety in intensive care units

ABSTRACT

Objective

To understand the perception of nursing professionals in public hospital intensive therapy units regarding patient safety.

Methods

This is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach. Eighty nursing professionals who developed welfare activities in general intensive care units in Northeastern Brazil participated. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, from May to June 2014. The textual content was submitted to the lexicographical textual analysis, and data analysis was based on the literature.

Results

Four classes were analyzed: need for change; actions before an adverse event; concepts of safe care; and actions that integrate safe care. It was revealed that patient safety is a consequence of the culture adopted by professionals.

Conclusions

Professionals understand patient safety as a set of strategies that minimize the risk of adverse events.

Patient safety; Critical care; Nursing