Nurses' Safety in the Hospital Environment: Evolutionary Concept Analysis / 간호행정학회지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the concept of nurses' safety within the context of the hospital environment. METHODS: We used Rodgers' method of evolutionary concept analysis and reviewed the relevant literature and noted and categorized characteristics that appeared frequently. RESULTS: Nurses' safety was defined as safe status and safe activity among nurses. Three key defining attributes were identified as (a) the minimization of actual or perceived risk, (b) personal duties and rights, and (c) ensuring within a safe working environment. Antecedents of nurses' safety were categorized into three dimensions (a) individual, including vigilance and knowledge gained through education and training; (b) institutional, including safety provision in the organizations; and (c) national, including legislation. The outcomes of nurses' safety included the following (a) continued competence in nurses' work; (b) enhancement of the quality of patient care; and (c) reductions in nurses' turnover rates. CONCLUSION: Nurses' safety ensures that qualified nurses are able to continue to perform their duties and provide good patient care. The findings of this study could contribute to future research examining nurses' safety. In addition, appropriate tools must be developed to measure the concept.