Narrative review of the UK Patient Safety Research Portfolio.
OBJECTIVE
The UK Patient Safety Research Portfolio (PSRP) commissioned 38 studies investigating the threats to patient safety in various clinical settings and evaluating safety-related service interventions. This paper reviews 27 of these studies, drawing out emergent and cross-cutting themes in terms of theory, research methods and thematic findings.


METHODS
Given the diversity of PSRP studies, the paper takes a narrative approach that allows for qualitative description, interpretation and synthesis of the studies and their findings.


RESULTS
The theoretical review shows the majority of PSRP studies draw upon a patient safety 'orthodoxy', developed from the concepts and models associated with the human factors approach. The methodological review shows that a diverse range of research designs and techniques have been utilized. Although many follow in the 'scientific' tradition, interpretative, mixed and innovative methods have been integral to research. The thematic review of findings highlights significant contributions to knowledge in the areas of 'people', 'organizations', and 'technology'. As well as identifying the various sources of risk in the organization and delivery of patient care, the studies also evaluate and make recommendations about service change and improvement.


CONCLUSIONS
The PSRP has provided the foundations for significant theoretical, methodological and empirical advances in the area of patient safety. The findings and recommendations make important contributions to policy formulation and implementation as well as professional and managerial practice. Through this body of research the PSRP has supported the formation and growth of a thriving research community across academic, policy and professional communities.
Waring
Justin
J
Nottingham University Business School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK. Justin.waring@nottingham.ac.uk
Rowley
Emma
E
Dingwall
Robert
R
Palmer
Cecily
C
Murcott
Toby
T
D006801:Humans; D019300:Medical Errors / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015279:Organizational Culture; D036301:Qualitative Research; D017751:Safety Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006113:United Kingdom