Anesthetists’ Knowledge, Attitude, and related Factors on Patient Safety in Government Hospitals in Ethiopia a Multicenter Approach (28 December 2024)

Summary

In the field of healthcare, ensuring patient safety is a critical priority that has garnered global recognition as a pressing public health concern. Despite notable progress in medical treatments and diagnostic technologies, patients continue to be at risk of adverse events and harm during the perioperative period. Anaesthetists hold a pivotal position in this phase of patient care and have the potential to greatly impact safety and outcomes.

This research sought to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and influencing factors of anaesthetists concerning patient safety in government referral hospitals situated in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The study revealed that over half of the participants had good knowledge (56.7%) and a positive attitude (68.9%). Factors significantly associated with patient safety knowledge included having patient safety information during continuing education [AOR = 4.016; 95% CI: (1.99–8.07)] and having a working experience of more than 15 years [AOR = 3.9; 95% CI: (1.23–12.29)]. Additionally, those who received patient safety training [AOR =2.0; 95% CI: (1.2–3.64)] were more likely to have a positive attitude than those who did not receive such training.

The study found that a majority of Ethiopian anaesthetists hold a favourable view toward patient safety, with 56.7% demonstrating good patient safety knowledge and 68.9% exhibiting a favourable attitude toward patient safety. Work experience, continuous education, patient safety training, and strong knowledge were identified as crucial factors in ensuring patient safety.

Therefore, it is recommended that anaesthesia professionals participate in educational programs and receive training in patient safety to address these concerns.