Leveraging computerized sign-out to increase error reporting and addressing patient safety in graduate medical education.
METHODS
Electronic reporting systems are important components of the patient-safety movement but have been problematic particularly in capturing information from physicians.


OBJECTIVE
In an attempt to increase error reporting in our community hospital residency program, we devised a convenient safety log integrated into the computerized resident-patient sign-out.


RESULTS
Safety-log events are discussed in weekly safety reports with emphasis on developing a safety culture and preventing further events. We report our experience implementing the safety log. The program quadrupled our contribution to the hospital quality assurance system and has led to significant system innovations. Challenges have included sharing information and improving accountability without humiliating participants or alienating co-workers, as well as sustaining the project over time.


CONCLUSIONS
Residents are uniquely placed to provide insight into hospital systems. An error-reporting system based in a resident sign-out can leverage this role into an important tool for safety education and care improvement.
Foster
Paul N
PN
Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD 21204, USA.
Sidhu
Runa
R
Gadhia
Dhruv A
DA
DeMusis
Michele
M
D006745:Hospital Bed Capacity, 300 to 499; D006751:Hospital Information Systems; D006764:Hospitals, Community; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized; D008508:Medication Errors; D008510:Medication Systems, Hospital; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D010351:Patient Discharge; D012308:Risk Management