Perception of the patient safety culture among healthcare workers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Patient safety culture (PSC) is a key determinant of care quality, influencing clinical outcomes, staff functioning, and the resiliency of organizations. While PSC has evolved globally, it remains established in developing countries like Egypt. This study intended to evaluate healthcare workers' perceptions regarding PSC across three public hospitals in Beni-Suef City, Egypt. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was used, including 497 healthcare workers from University Hospital, governmental, and health insurance hospitals in the Beni-Suef governorate. Convenience sampling technique was used. Data were gathered using modified version of the Survey on Patient Safety Culture (SOPS) Hospital Survey, enhanced with items from the Workplace Safety Supplemental Set. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation, and multivariable linear regression using SPSS v26.0. RESULTS: The study found that the mean age of participants was 28.98 years, with over 40% between 26 and 30 years old. Nurses exhibited significantly higher PSC scores than administrative staff. (Mean ± SD: 79.54 ± 11.36vs. 72.73 ± 16.63, respectively; P value = 0.005). Government hospitals showed higher PSC perceptions toward PSC than university hospitals (Mean ± SD: 82.39 ± 7.01vs. 75.77 ± 14.25, respectively; P value < 0.001). Working 30 h or more per week with (P value = 0.043), having direct patient contact with (P value < 0.001), and Every unit increase in workplace safety score is associated with an increase in patient safety score by 1.99 point. A negative relationship was identified between PSC and burnout with (P value = 0.010). CONCLUSION: Demographic, occupational, and institutional factors significantly influence PSC. Strategies focusing on improving workplace safety, reducing burnout, and targeting younger staff are essential to strengthening patient safety culture in Egyptian healthcare settings. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.