The complexities of speaking up in healthcare: Navigating silence for patient safety (Suzette Woodward, 22 January 2024)

Summary

In the intricate world of healthcare, where patient safety is paramount, the ability to speak up is a crucial component of a culture of safety. However, the complexities surrounding voicing concerns or challenging the status quo in a healthcare environment can be extremely daunting. Speaking up to those who are respected, who are perceived as more powerful or more influential is not easy. Even asking questions, let alone questioning others can create tension or even risk relationships. We are too often silenced by others or are purposefully silent ourselves because it is the easier thing to do.

In this blog, Suzette Woodward discusses the barriers to speaking up and what we can do.