Patient Safety: Principles and Practice

This book provides readers with both a foundation of theoretical knowledge regarding patient safety as well as evidence-based strategies for preventing errors in various clinical settings. The authorsí goal is to help clinicians and administrators gain the skills and knowledge they need to develop safe patient practices in their organizations. Key topics include: An overview of evidence-based best practices for patient safety Clear explanation of important patient safety policies and legislation Innovative uses of technology such as computerized provider order entry, barcoding medications, and computerized clinical decision support systems The importance of an informed patient in preventing medical errors How to communicate with the public and the patient about errors if they occur Special patient safety concerns for children, the elderly, and the mentally ill

About the Author

Jacqueline Fowler Byers, PhD, RN, CNAA, CPHQ, is an Associate Professor, School of Nursing, College of Health and Public Affairs, at the University of Central Florida. She has over 25 years experience in health care in varied clinical, educational, and administrative roles. Susan V. White, PhD, RN, CPHQ, FNAHQ, is the Associate Chief of nursing/Quality Improvement at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital.