Using the AHRQ SOPS Surveys webpage, provided in the topic Resources, select the SOPS survey appropriate for the practice setting in which you work. Complete the survey at your site and discuss how your facility scored. What changes would you recommend based on the survey results?
Solution
I conducted the Sops Hospital survey at my facility and found several areas that need improvement. My facility scored well in terms of management’s safety focus. There were noticeable gaps in how these priorities are cascaded to down to front line staff. One significant finding was the excessive use of float staff within the PCU unit. It impacts the continuity of care, as these float staff might not be familiar with the needs of our patients or the established protocols of the team. I recommend hiring more full time staff to provide consistent coverage, keeping continuity in care and team dynamics. Another critical issue pointed out in the survey is the fear among staff of reporting safety issues in the PCU floor. Many expressed anxeity about being reprimanded by leadership for bringing up issues, resulting in not reporting unsafe practices. I believe there must be distinction between accountability culture and a punitive culture. Despite the need for accountability, leaders struggle to maintain it. A punitive approach creates fear, disengaging employees, and limiting their performance (Clair, 2025).
The survey also indicated that C-suite place a priority on patient safety and stopping the line for issues. This commitment doesn’t always reach the bedside staff. It’s crucial to cascade these priorities down effectively. Regular safety huddles should be used as information sessions, and opportunity to talk about safety events, near misses. If issues recur without adequate resolution, it signals a breakdown in the systems meant to address these problems. I recommend creating a process where staff can discuss recurring issues during safety huddles, knowing their feedback is considered. There seems to be an adequate amount of resources for patient safety, but I do feel this needs on going follow up and continuous support.
Reference
Clair, T. (2025, January 21). Latest From the Lab: Creating a Culture of Accountability – NeuroLeadership Institute. NeuroLeadership Institute. https://neuroleadership.com/your-brain-at-work-2025-leatest-from-the-lab-creating-a-culture-of-accountability