Identifying ICU patient safety priorities within a Northern Ontario setting : a delphi study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore patient safety priorities as perceived by clinical experts working in a northern Ontario adult ICU. A modified Delphi was used to elicit consensus regarding patient safety priorities from the perspective of an expert panel of registered nurses and intensivists. At the onset of the study, the consensus level was set at 70%. Data was collected through serials rounds with researcher-developed questionnaires. Descriptive statistical analysis was completed. No consensus was reached at Round 1. Three points of consensus regarding patient safety priorities were reached at Round 2: improving pain and agitation management; incorporating a checklist into the bullet round reporting tool; and implementing use of visual cues for high-risk lines. These strategies support the need for anticipation, recognition, and management of at risk situations. The results have the potential to guide the advancement of the patient safety mandate within an ICU setting.