Situational Analysis of Incident Reporting in Bangkok-Surat Hospital

Abstract

           The use of incident reporting as a tool for improving patient safety by identifying problem areas and devising effective risk management strategies is well-established. This descriptive study aims to investigate the current state of incident reporting at Bangkok-Surat Hospital and suggest solutions. Donabedian's systemic framework (2005) is used as the conceptual model, which assesses incident reporting based on three aspects: structure, process, and outcome. The study is based on a sample of 25 personnel from Bangkok-Surat Hospital who have experience with incident reporting, and data was collected through semi-structured interviews and group discussions. Content analysis was used to analyze the data gathered.
            The research showed:
            1. Structure: Bangkok-Surat Hospital has a policy related to incident reporting, but it does not address the psychological safety of reporting. The hospital uses modern information technology to increase communication channels, but there is a lack of incident reporting training for both internal and external personnel. Physicians and nursing assistants reported fewer incidents than other personnel. Therefore, there should be an enhancement in the psychological safety policy. Departments should establish a continuous policy communication model. Incident reporting personnel should be trained to increase their knowledge and understanding and to promote the participation of interdisciplinary incident reporting.
            2. Process: the study found that information technology management is easily accessible, convenient, and anonymous, but it cannot be used for efficient report management. Responses to incident reports were also found to be delayed, highlighting the inefficiencies in information technology management and response times. Therefore, personnel should be trained to use information technology effectively and the department should set up guidelines for self-reporting incident responses to create initial learning.
           3. Outcome: the study found that incidents were underreported, and personnel were more likely to report incidents in other units than their own. The attitude towards reporting was also found to be more negative than positive. Therefore, the number of self-reported incidents should be increased, and personnel should adopt a positive attitude towards incident reporting.
            The study's results can be used by hospital administrators and nursing administrators to improve risk management at the departmental level in Bangkok-Surat Hospital. The findings should be used to create shared values and encourage more positive attitudes towards incident reporting in hospitals.