Western Illinois University Students Hold Patient Safety Event
Students had the opportunity to practice patient safety and quality improvement methods through simulated healthcare scenarios.
Students from the Western Illinois University School of Nursing and the School of Applied Health and Human Performance came together in a special event organized within the scope of World Patient Safety Day.
Purpose and Theme of the Event
Western Illinois University students participated in the World Patient Safety Day 2026 events held on September 17. This year's theme was designated as "Safe Care for Life," emphasizing safe care for individuals living with non-communicable diseases.
Practice with Realistic Scenarios
Students worked in teams to examine a simulated patient safety incident. Adopting a systems-focused approach, the work concentrated on improving processes rather than focusing on individual errors.
Analytical Tools Used
Participants analyzed simulated incident report data using analytical tools such as cause-and-effect diagrams and Pareto charts. Through this, they determined where improvement teams should primarily focus.
Expert and Student Insights
Ashley Frederick stated that every nurse plays a role in enhancing patient safety. Meanwhile, senior nursing student Meredith Flynn expressed that the event helped her understand how issues are connected to multiple system factors.