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Attitudes About Patient Safety: A Survey of Physicians-in-Training

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Jeff M. Riggio, MD

Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, jeff.riggio{at}jefferson.edu

Constance Hwang, MD

Johns Hopkins University

Little is known about the attitudes of physicians-in-training on patient safety, although success in error reduction strategies requires their support. We surveyed house staff and fourth-year medical students from 1 academic institution about their perceptions of adverse patient events. Three hundred twenty-one trainees (41%) completed the survey. Most believe adverse events are preventable (61%) and think improved teamwork (88%), better procedural training (74%), and improved sign-out (70%) would reduce medical mishaps. Forty-seven percent of trainees agree computerized order entry and restricted work hours would prevent adverse events. Although 60% feel malpractice fears inhibit discussion, 80% of trainees agreed physicians must disclose adverse events to patients and grow more comfortable with disclosure as training progresses (P for trend <.01). In conclusion, trainees believe adverse events are preventable and are poised to respond to many components of the patient safety movement.

Key Words: patient safety • attitudes of medical personnel • medical education • medical errors • adverse events

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