Patient safety in health information exchange and related factors

Thesis event information

Date and time of the thesis defence

Place of the thesis defence

Auditorium F202 (Aapistie 5)

Topic of the dissertation

Patient safety in health information exchange and related factors

Doctoral candidate

MNSc Piia Hyvämäki

Faculty and unit

University of Oulu Graduate School, Faculty of Medicine, Research Unit of Health Sciences and Technology

Subject of study

Nursing science

Opponent

Adjunct Professor Heljä Lundgrén-Laine, University of Turku, Wellbeing Services County of Central Finland

Custos

Adjunct Professor Miia Jansson, University of Oulu

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Client and Patient Safety in the Exchange of Patient Information Between Healthcare Organizations

The exchange of health information between healthcare organizations is a crucial part of the patient care process. Smooth and secure transfer of information ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care. However, the exchange of health information can involve risks that affect client and patient safety. Understanding and managing these risks is essential for improving the quality of healthcare and patient safety.

The purpose of the study was to describe the patient safety and related factors of health information exchange. The aim was to generate new knowledge on health information exchange to improve patient safety.

The study consisted of three phases. The first phase identified, critically appraised and synthesized evidence on health care professionals 'experiences of patient safety in health information exchange. Data was retrieved from several electronic databases containing studies and articles in the field of healthcare. Six studies were selected for the final analysis.

In the second phase, incidents related to the health information exchange, their causes, and consequences were described. Data was collected from the incident reporting system, HaiPro. The open reports of the incidents were analyzed to identify what types of incidents occurred in the exchange of health information, as well as their causes and consequences.

In the third phase, healthcare professionals' perceptions of the factors relating to the safety of health information exchange were described. Data was collected by interviewing healthcare professionals. The analysis of the data utilized sociotechnical theory, which examines the interaction between people and technology in the working environment.

The results of the study showed that the efficiency, accuracy, and usability of technology in the exchange of health information affect patient safety. Incidents often resulted from poor documentation and inadequate use of information. The actions of organizations and professionals are crucial in ensuring safety. The sociotechnical perspective helps to understand and improve the safety of health information exchange.

In conclusion, healthcare organizations play a key role in ensuring the safety of health information exchange. Improving technology and working practices can enhance the efficiency of health information exchange and reduce incidents.
Last updated: 4.11.2024