‘Speaking up for safety’: A graded assertiveness intervention for first year nursing students in preparation for clinical placement: Thematic analysis

Assertiveness training during early undergraduate years has the potential to increase students’ confidence and ability to act as patient advocates

“…The purpose of the study2 was to elicit student perspectives on the quality and appropriateness of a communication assertiveness activity. The study was performed with first-year undergraduate nursing students at a regional university in Southeast Queensland, Australia.…”

“…The issue of nursing intimidation by ‘oppressive team cultures’, as proposed by Hanson et al ,2 should be of major concern to healthcare institutions, given the central role played by nurses in the system. Therefore, the possibility of teaching assertiveness that will translate into improved patient outcomes once students become professionals is an important topic that deserves further exploration.…”

“…Therefore, the possibility of teaching assertiveness that will translate into improved patient outcomes once students become professionals is an important topic that deserves further exploration. The present study2 focused on the impact of teaching assertiveness skills and using structured communication tools as part of first-year undergraduate nursing training, given the perception that patient safety is associated with the ability to challenge unsafe practices. A bridging of the gap between theory and professional practice is proposed, with recommendations for the development of comprehensive frameworks involving knowledge and skill training to strengthen patient safety 3.…”

“…The strategy proposed by Hanson et al ,2 which involved the teaching of assertiveness tools that enhance the ability of students to ‘speak up for the patient’, showed that students felt more confident, empowered and prepared to face real-life work environments, and also raised their awareness regarding their own professional practice boundaries.…”

Safer surgical practice: a guide for surgeons (not just for pandemics)

“…The CUSS model (I am c oncerned, I am u ncomfortable, I am s eriously concerned, s top) 28 can greatly add to a surgeon’s safety toolbox. This empowers those in junior positions and ensures that everyone can be the voice of safety.…”