SAFETY BEGINS WITH EMPOWERMENT: A LITERATURE REVIEW OF THE ROLE OF PATIENTS AND FAMILIES IN IMPROVING SAFETY IN HOSPITAL INPATIENT CARE

Abstract

Patient safety is a critical component of healthcare services, and family empowerment is increasingly recognized as a key strategy to enhance patient safety outcomes. Active involvement of patients and their families in the care process can reduce the risk of medical errors and improve the overall quality of care. Consequently, it is essential to explore effective strategies for implementing such empowerment in hospital settings. This study aims to identify and synthesize current evidence on patient and family empowerment through the use of safety checklists within hospital-based patient safety programs. This study employed a descriptive literature review approach followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, drawing on data from peer-reviewed scientific journals published between 2014 and 2024. Analysis of 12 relevant articles revealed that patient and family empowerment significantly contribute to improving patient safety by enhancing their engagement in care processes and decision-making. The use of safety checklists was found to be an effective tool in fostering a culture of safety within hospitals, reducing medical errors, and improving the quality of care. Several factors were identified as influencing the success of patient and family empowerment initiatives, including support from healthcare providers, adequate education, and the presence of systems that facilitate effective communication. These findings highlight the need for collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, hospital management, and patients to establish a supportive environment for empowerment, alongside continuous training for healthcare providers on the importance of safety culture. This study underscores the critical role of patient and family empowerment in enhancing the safety of hospitalized patients. Empowerment strategies, particularly those involving safety checklists, are essential in fostering a culture of safety and minimizing preventable harm in healthcare settings.