Shaping Safety: Unveiling the Dynamics of Incident Reporting and Safety Culture in Saudi Arabian Healthcare.

Background: Patient safety is a critical concern in healthcare systems worldwide. Understanding the interplay between safety culture and incident reporting behaviors among healthcare professionals is essential for improving patient outcomes. Objective: To examine the perception of patient safety culture among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia and its impact on their attitudes toward incident reporting, considering variables such as level of care, ownership, and professional background. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed both online and onsite to 453 healthcare professionals, with 402 completing it. The survey assessed various dimensions of safety culture and incident reporting behaviors. Statistical analysis included correlation matrices, regression models, and comparative assessments across different types of hospital settings. Results: The study revealed significant associations between perceived safety culture and incident reporting behaviors (p < 0.01). Specifically, management (B = 0.64, p < 0.01), working conditions (r = 0.51, p < 0.01), and job satisfaction (r = 0.52, p < 0.01) were identified as crucial for improvement. The study highlighted the importance of fostering a blame-free culture and establishing clear reporting guidelines to enhance reporting frequencies. Conclusion: Enhancing the perception of patient safety within healthcare settings positively influences the likelihood of incident reporting. Strategic interventions aimed at improving safety culture could significantly advance patient care quality.