Results of a survey to evaluate awareness and practices of critical incident reported by anaesthesiologists

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Critical incident reporting is vital for enhancing patient safety in anesthesia.
• Awareness and practices of incident reporting among Indian anesthesiologists were evaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the awareness and current practices of anesthesiologists regarding critical incident reporting in India.
• To identify barriers to incident reporting in the Indian context.

Main Methods:

• An online web-based survey was conducted using a validated questionnaire.
• The survey was disseminated via social media platforms to anesthesiologists in India.
• Data analysis was performed upon receipt of sufficient responses.

Main Results:

• 60% of respondents reported a workplace incident reporting system.
• High awareness of reporting was noted, but a majority were reluctant to report due to fear of blame and shame.
• Commonly reported incidents included cardiac arrest and drug errors; contributing factors were staffing, communication, work hours, and work environment.

Conclusions:

• Apprehensions regarding blame hinder critical incident reporting among Indian anesthesiologists.
• The absence of a uniform reporting system necessitates the development of national guidelines and a standardized reporting mechanism.
• Addressing fear of blame is essential to improve patient safety through effective incident reporting.