Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Practice Exam

Which is an example of a method to improve psychological safety for patients?

1. Building a competitive healthcare environment

2. Providing unfiltered feedback opportunities for patients

3. Avoiding discussions about care plans with patients

4. Minimizing patient interaction with staff

The correct answer is: Providing unfiltered feedback opportunities for patients

Providing unfiltered feedback opportunities for patients exemplifies a method to improve psychological safety because it fosters an environment where patients feel empowered to express their thoughts, concerns, and experiences without fear of retribution or judgment. This approach encourages open communication and transparency, which are essential elements of psychological safety. When patients have the opportunity to voice their feedback, they contribute to their own care and the care of others, ultimately leading to enhanced trust between patients and healthcare providers. Trust is foundational in healthcare settings, as it can lead to better engagement, adherence to treatment plans, and overall improved satisfaction with the care provided. In contrast, creating a competitive healthcare environment, avoiding discussions about care plans, or minimizing patient interaction with staff would likely result in a reduction of psychological safety. Competitive environments can lead to a focus on outcomes that undermines collaboration and support. Likewise, avoiding conversations about care plans denies patients the critical involvement in their own healthcare, and minimizing interactions with staff reduces opportunities for patients to connect and seek clarity, thus diminishing their sense of security and support.