The Institute of Medicine released a report ten years ago known as the "To Err is Human" report. Basically, the report concluded that systems were at fault for most medical errors rather than humans. However, this report is now largely discredited, as researchers and quality analysts now conclude that the most important variable in improving patient safety is humans. While improvements in medical systems can be useful in preventing medical errors, communication, teamwork and leadership remain the strongest prevention of such errors.

Currently, preventable medical errors kill about 100,000 people every year. This figure has increased since the Institute of Medicine report stated that 98.000 deaths per year are attributable to preventable medical error. Some attribute this slight increase to an improvement in reporting practices and believe that the number has actually decreased. Still, according to patient-safety experts, the medical industry's attempt at preventing medical errors has been poor and underwhelming.

However, some hospitals are starting to make progress. For example, many are utilizing evidence-based tools that include "no interruption zones" for nurses dispensing medications and scheduled "time-outs" before surgical procedures. Further, some use new technologies like computerized prompt systems and bar codes for medication and patient identification.

Still, researchers warn that the evidence-based tools and technologies are only effective when the hospital or facility promotes the importance of a culture of safety. Those in healthcare must work as a team with open communication and a firm understanding of how the tools work.

Also, researchers stress that a culture of safety is a culture of learning. When mistakes are made, they should be disclosed and discussed by staff so that everyone is aware of their role in patient safety. Some hospitals hold classes that discuss patient-safety errors that occurred and how to prevent them. These hospitals are ahead of the curve.

However, all hospitals should be quick to establish similar patient safety tools and programs, as healthcare payers like Medicare and Medicaid increasingly threaten to deny payment for treatment required as a result of a preventable medical error. Soon, all hospitals will need to make the prevention of medical errors their top priority.

Source: Nurse.com "The Time is Now: 'Culture Of Safety' Key To Preventing Errors" 8/23/10