Human Factors and Prevention of Medical Errors

Medical errors are a significant concern in healthcare systems, often resulting from complex human factors. This chapter explores the role of human factors in the occurrence of medical errors, with an emphasis on occupational safety and health perspectives that are pertinent to healthcare professionals. By analyzing cognitive, physical, and environmental interactions, we can better understand how these factors lead to errors in healthcare settings. Key frameworks, including the Swiss Cheese Model, Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS), and the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS), are evaluated for their utility in mitigating these risks. This chapter provides updated insights and practical recommendations for improving safety in healthcare through enhanced communication, standardized procedures, and targeted training initiatives. The findings underscore the critical need for integrating human factors into healthcare systems to enhance safety and reduce preventable harm, particularly from an occupational health perspective.