Authors
- Andrea Andrasek Šebek – Division of Orthopedics, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Dubrava, Avenija Gojka Šuška 6, Zagreb, Croatia
- Sladjana Rezić – Department for Quality Assurance and Improvement in Healthcare, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, Zagreb, Croatia
DOI
https://doi.org/10.65241/wh.9.1.6
Article type:
Original Scientific Paper
Abstract:
Background: Patient safety is a fundamental component of high-quality healthcare, and the reporting of adverse events is a crucial mechanism for identifying risks and preventing recurrence of errors in clinical practice.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among nurses and nursing technicians in clinical practice in Croatia between March 4 and April 7, 2025. Data were collected using a structured, author-designed questionnaire distributed via Google Forms, using a snowball sampling method. Participation was voluntary and anonymous, and only fully completed questionnaires from eligible respondents were included in the analysis. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: sociodemographic characteristics, perceptions of adverse events, knowledge of adverse event definitions and reporting systems, and personal experiences with adverse events, including reporting practices and preventive measures.
Results: Statistically significant differences in knowledge of adverse events were observed according to age (p = 0.021), level of education (p = 0.004), and job position (p = 0.014), with higher knowledge levels more frequently identified among older participants, those with graduate or postgraduate education, and those in managerial roles. Higher knowledge levels were significantly associated with key aspects of clinical practice, including more frequent reporting of adverse events (p = 0.010), greater exposure to adverse events (p = 0.030), witnessing unreported events (p = 0.015), implementation of preventive measures (p = 0.013), and perceived pressure not to report (p = 0.034). Additionally, a significant association was found between frequency of education and reporting behavior (p = 0.007), indicating that repeated participation in educational programs contributes to increased reporting of adverse events.
Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for continuous education for healthcare professionals, strengthened institutional support, and a work environment that encourages reporting without fear of sanction. Improving reporting systems and promoting a culture of safety may contribute to more effective prevention of adverse events, enhanced patient safety, and improved overall healthcare quality.
Keywords:
Education, nurses, adverse events, reporting, patient safety.