TAHSN QIPS CoP Improving Patient Safety workstream: Collaborating to reduce preventable harm

Canadian Patient Safety Week (CPSW)  October 28-November 1, 2024

CPSW brings attention to the importance of patient safety in healthcare settings. This year, the focus of CPSW is on understanding healthcare harm which is embedded in the work of the TAHSN QIPS Community of Practice (CoP), specifically the Improving Patient Safety workstream.  

The primary goal of the Improving Patient Safety workstream is to reduce preventable harm to our patients by harnessing collective quality and safety expertise across various healthcare organizations. A solid foundation of shared knowledge and practices, are the key to creating an environment where organizations work collaboratively toward high reliability principles to ensure patient safety is prioritized. 

Members of this workstream have identified the adoption of a common taxonomy for Serious Safety Event Classification (SSEC) as critical component in reduction of preventable harm. Having a standardized approach enables organizations to categorize and analyze safety events consistently, promoting a shared understanding of patient safety issues. As part of this initiative, organizations are being trained in the Press Ganey Safety Event Classification System, which provides a comprehensive framework and consistent methodology for measuring patient harm and tracking improvements. 

To ensure the successful implementation of this initiative, over 60 participants from 17 organizations—including 12 TAHSN hospitals—have engaged in training sessions on SSEC and Common Cause Analysis (CCA). Delivered by expert coaches from Press Ganey, these educational sessions included workshops and coaching discussions that emphasized practical application and shared learning. 

Regular monthly huddles further enhance this workstream approach, allowing participants to discuss relevant topics gathering insights from their peers. By fostering ongoing communication and engagement, the workstream promotes a culture of safety and accountability. 

As we acknowledge Canadian Patient Safety Week, it’s vital to recognize the collective commitment to improving patient safety across healthcare institutions. The work being done through the TAHSN QIPS CoP demonstrates the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change. This week is an opportunity for all healthcare providers to reflect on their practices, learn from one another, and commit to a culture of safety. Together, we can create a healthcare environment where patients receive the safest, highest quality care possible. For more information and resources related to Canadian Patient Safety week, visit Healthcare Excellence Canada.

 

Learn more about the TAHSN Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Community of Practice here.