Patient safety culture predictors and outcomes for sustainable oncology nursing practice: A cross-sectional correlational study.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To examine the predictors and outcomes of patient safety culture (PSC) among oncology nurses working in public Saudi hospitals according to participant characteristics and evaluate the relationship between PSC domains.

BACKGROUND: PSC is crucial in healthcare systems, particularly in oncology and chemotherapy units, and its assessment can enhance the standard service provided and cancer care quality. There is currently limited research on the status, predictors and outcomes of PSC in cancer care settings in developing countries, including Saudi Arabia.

DESIGN: A cross-sectional correlational study.

METHODS: A convenience sample of 101 oncology nurses working in two large Saudi tertiary care hospitals participated in this study. The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture validated instrument and demographic and work surveys were completed by the participants. The study methods were compliant with the STROBE checklist. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions were used to analyse the data.

RESULTS: The areas of PSC strength were related to organizational learning-constant improvement, feedback and communication about errors, and transitions and handoffs. Manager/supervisor actions and expectations, hospital management support, communication openness, experience in the current unit and oncology unit/area were the predictors of PSC. In terms of PSC outcomes, the oncology nurses reported either no or one to two adverse events and a substantially good patient safety rating.

CONCLUSION: The level of PSC was lower than expected. Communication openness, experience in the current unit and oncology unit/area were the strongest predictors of PSC. Investing in oncology nursing practice that addresses these concerns and prioritizes patient safety is critical in Saudi cancer care settings to increase patient safety.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: The findings contribute to a better understanding of the predictors and outcomes of PSC, which should be considered when establishing effective nursing interventions or strategies for PSC in cancer care settings.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.