Human Factors in Patient Safety for Core Surgical Trainees

Introduction 

Human factors is defined as the scientific discipline concerned with understanding the interactions between humans and other elements of a complex system (Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Accessed 2023). It encompasses what we know about people, their abilities and characteristics, and the environment in which they function (Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Accessed 2023). Human Factors is an important means of analysing complex systems such as healthcare, with the aim of improving safety for all those impacted by the system (Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Accessed 2023). Despite increasing focus on safety in healthcare, there is still some way to go to make healthcare delivery safer. It is reported that approximately one in 20 patients experience preventable harm when receiving healthcare (Panagioti et al, 2019). One means of improving the safety of healthcare is developing the non-technical skills of healthcare professionals and equipping them with the knowledge and ability to manage the complex system within which they work.  

It has been estimated that only 25% of the important events which occur during a procedure are related to manual or technical skills and that 75% relate to human factors such as decision making, communication, teamwork and leadership (Kohn et al, 1999).  Other factors which are important in medicine include self-awareness (i.e., insight), conflict resolution and error management.   

While some individuals seem to have innate interpersonal and personal skills, many others can have these skills improved by formal education and training.  Although it is unlikely that innate personality can be changed, it is undoubtedly possible to alter certain aspects of behaviour which impact negatively on colleagues and on the team in the workplace.   

With appropriate training, individuals can improve their personal and interpersonal skills and thus function more effectively as part of the multidisciplinary team in which all doctors work today (Buljac-Samardzic et al, 2020; McCulloch et al, 2009; Cahan et al, 2010; Ounounou et al, 2019). The Human Factors in Patient Safety Training programme at RCSI aims to develop these skills in trainees through a mix of didactic teaching and action-based learning. 

Human Factors in Patient Safety Training – RCSI  

A programme of professional training in Human Factors in Patient Safety (HFPS) principles is a mandatory component of training for Core Surgical Trainees during their two years. Commencing at Core Training and continuing up to the final year of their Specialty Training Programmes. Trained faculty members and adjunct consultant trainers deliver the programme at No. 26 RCSI.  

The programme aims to provide a greater awareness of risk and error in the workplace by providing trainees with skills required to mitigate risk and prevent adverse outcomes. The programme supports the professional development of trainees and seeks to reinforce and ensure a culture of patient safety for the benefit of hospital patients. 

The RCSI Human Factors in Patient Safety programme also has a unique focus on non-technical skills, such as communication, teamwork, decision-making, leadership and managing stress emphasising how these skills facilitate better performance and enhanced self-care. 

HFPS Training Modules  

Trainees in Core Training undertake the following modules of HFPS Training over two years. 

Bootcamp dates are assigned to newly appointed trainees on commencement of Core Training.  

Trainees will receive a detailed email from the Surgical Training office at the beginning of each training year outlining your mandatory HFPS classes and how to book into your preferred dates, trainees are encouraged to sign up to their HFPS classes via our online booking system