Evaluation of patient safety culture in community pharmacies.

BACKGROUND

The majority of medical mistakes risking patient safety have been related to medication. Numerous international health organizations support assessing safety culture in healthcare organizations as a successful tactic for long-term safety development.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess patient safety culture, investigate determinants of patient safety in community pharmacies and identify strengths and possible improvements concerning patient safety in the Lebanese community.

METHOD

An observational descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using the Pharmacy Survey on Patient Safety Culture (PSOPSC). It was distributed among Lebanese community pharmacists.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-five community pharmacists completed the survey. High percent positive response (PPR) was seen in the domains of patient counseling (86.4%) and teamwork (83.9%). "Staffing, Work Pressure, and Pace" composite scored 41.2%. Female pharmacists were shown to be more dedicated to patient safety culture, namely in patient counseling skills ( < 0.05). Working for 32 to 40 h per week (β = 19.305), and for >40 h per week (β = 18.315) were significantly associated with increased patient safety score.

CONCLUSION

An overall positive perception towards patient safety culture was seen among Lebanese community pharmacists.