News Review
Hospitals gear up to highlight patient safety this week
Canadian Patient Safety Week Oct. 8 to 13
Tuesday October 9, 2007
On Oct. 12, every patient at a hospital in Peterborough, Ontario, will receive a brochure about patient safety on their meal trays.

In addition, the orientation package that awaits new patients on their bedside table will include literature about how patients can do their part to create a safer hospital experience.

The initiatives are part of Peterborough Regional Health Centre’s plans to celebrate Canadian Patient Safety Week. The Canadian Patient Safety Institute’s Patient Safety Week is in its third year. This year’s theme is Patient Safety: Be Involved. Ask. Talk. Listen.

For staff, the hospital is also planning an education component so they are familiar with the campaign and the fact patients are being encouraged to speak up and ask questions. Quizzes and prizes are on the agenda, and an expected media launch as well.

With an increased focus on patient safety because of a number of factors over recent years including reports showing healthcare isn’t as safe as it could be, patient safety is not only put in the spotlight this week but an important topic year-round at every hospital.

Patient safety specialists consider the week an opportunity to highlight for staff and patients and the work that happens on a daily basis to create a better, safer environment for everyone within the hospital.

Another hospital in the Greater Toronto Area plans to participate in Canadian Patient Safety Week through staff education initiatives and increased literature promoting a safer culture.

Shirley Atkinson, manager of quality and risk management for Rouge Valley Health System, which has sites in Ajax and Scarborough, Ontario, says the hospital is planning a number of activities for the week.

“The theme this year Patient Safety: Be Involved. Ask. Talk. Listen. builds on a fundamental and key element of patient safety — communication between and among patients and caregivers,” she says.

“During that week, units will have an opportunity to showcase patient safety activities. Public affairs will send out patient safety communiqués via electronic newsletter and poster boards highlighting the principles of patient safety will be on display all week and our spirit day organizers will create some fun activities for staff.”   

Both the Canadian Patient Safety Institute and the Ontario Hospital Association are launching campaigns with similar messages. The messages encourage patients to become active, involved and take ownership of their safety during their healthcare experience.

By visiting www.patientsafetyweek.ca, hospitals and other healthcare providers can access information, toolkits and other material about patient safety week.

The CPSI says the site will be updated regularly to help healthcare providers take part in the week dedicated to patient safety in Canada.

Related Story:
PRHC planning patient safety week promotion, education

Rouge Valley plans activities with emphasis on patient safety