Perspectives of speech-language therapists on patient safety incidents in South Africa

Abstract

Background: Patient safety incidents (PSIs) cause harm to patients, including falls, accidental ingestion and physical assault. Despite their importance in healthcare, limited information exists on how South African speech-language therapists (SLTs) perceive them in the public and private sectors. This study applied the Donabedian model of patient safety and healthcare quality to SLTs’ perspectives on PSIs.

Methods: Free attitude interviews with 10 South African SLTs explored the environment (where and who), processes (how and why) and outcomes (events and consequences) of PSIs. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically using a six-phase deductive and inductive approach within the Donabedian model.

Results: The Donabedian model’s three components (structure, process, outcome) led to six sub-themes, highlighting its applicability to SLTs’ perspectives on PSIs. It revealed how factors such as clinical environment, care delivery and patient outcomes influence SLTs’ perceptions.

Conclusion: Understanding SLTs’ perspectives is essential for addressing environmental issues, developing training, institutional inductions and audits that prevent and manage PSIs, and improving service quality.

Contribution: This study emphasises engaging practitioners to understand factors affecting PSIs. It contributes to improving SLT training and practice in South Africa to enhance patient safety.