Human Factors and Ergonomics in Patient Safety Within the Framework of Environmental, Social and Governance

Abstract

The healthcare system is one of the keys to sustainable development and has historically embraced the social pillar of environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts, caring for patients and medical employees. Since the human factor and ergonomics (HFE) is part of the social efforts, integration of the HFE into the process and quality management system might create a new discourse also for management of patient safety system. Hence the integration of HFE in patient safety with the ESG framework is a current and evolving field of study. Aim of the research is to investigate scientific literature on the field of HFE in Patient Safety and ESG framework in order to develop systematic literature review on how to develop sustainable patient safety with HFE integration with ESG framework. Systematic literature review was performed during the study, using monographic and PRISMA method guidelines. Research results show that sustainable development is one of the key issues in the healthcare industry. Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) scientific researches in patient safety have addressed various contemporary factors, including technology use, human errors and its role in patient safety, work efficiency and work abilities in patient safety a.o. Integrating HFE in patient safety with the ESG framework can lead to a holistic approach towards improving patient safety and healthcare outcomes and most importantly – provide sustainable patient safety. This integration can help healthcare organizations manage risks and opportunities related to environmental, social, and governance criteria, hence improving the overall wellbeing of patients and at the same time also for healthcare workers.

Keywords: Ergonomics, Human Factors, Patient Safety, Sustainability, Quality

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005321