THE ROLE OF NURSES’ CLINICAL COMPETENCE IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PATIENT SAFETY GOALS IN TYPE B HOSPITALS

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of nurses’ clinical competence in the implementation of Patient Safety Goals in Type B hospitals. A qualitative approach with a descriptive–exploratory design was employed to obtain an in-depth understanding of nurses’ experiences, perceptions, and clinical practices related to patient safety implementation. The study was conducted in a Type B hospital located in Bandung City, West Java Province, Indonesia. A total of sixteen informants participated in the study, consisting of twelve staff nurses as primary informants and four supporting informants, including two nurse managers and two hospital patient safety officers. Informants were selected based on the principle of data adequacy to ensure depth and richness of information..The findings indicate that nurses’ clinical competence plays a central role in the effective implementation of Patient Safety Goals. Nurses with strong clinical knowledge, well-developed technical skills, and positive professional attitudes were more consistent in applying patient safety standards, including accurate patient identification, safe medication administration, effective communication, infection prevention, and fall risk management. Conversely, variations in competence levels, limited opportunities for continuous professional development, and high workload demands were identified as barriers to optimal patient safety implementation.This study concludes that strengthening nurses’ clinical competence is essential for improving patient safety performance in Type B hospitals. The findings recommend the implementation of competency-based training, regular skills evaluation, and supportive supervision as strategic measures to enhance the consistent application of Patient Safety Goals. By focusing on competency development, hospitals can promote safer clinical practices and improve the overall quality of patient care.