Risk assessment of biological hazards to the nurses using ‘Failure Modes and Effects Analysis’ (FMEA) in the intensive care unit
Risk assessment of biological hazards using Failure Modes and Effects Analysis
Abstract
Background: Nursing staff in the intensive care unit (ICU) is exposed to multiple biologic hazards. We aimed to identify biological hazards threatening the health of nurses in the ICU using the technique of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) tool.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study by Focus Discussion Group (FDG) was performed in the ICU. Participants were familiar with the processes in ICU. The sampling method was purposeful and discrete and the researcher selected FDG group members. The study instrument was standard worksheet. Data analysis was performed by FMEA technique and based on Risk Priority Number (RPN).
Results: 53 possible errors were identified in 14 common activities in the ICU. Error cases with unacceptable risk were identified, including "lack of hand hygiene" (RPN 177.75), "needle stick injuries” (RPN 167.62), “lack of personal protective equipment" (RPN 133.92) and "absence of N95 or FFP2 mask during CPR of COVID-19 patients" (RPN 111.60).
Conclusion: The causes and effects of the errors were identified, and corrective measures were presented in three areas: reducing the frequency and severity and increasing the error detection capability. It was suggested that retraining courses for nurses be held to prevent errors and ensure the health of nurses.
Abbreviations: FMEA - Failure Modes and Effects Analysis; FDG - Focus Discussion Group; ICU - intensive care unit; RPN - Risk Priority Number
Key words: Biological Hazards; FMEA; Intensive Care Unit; Risk Assessment
Citation: Hosseni L, Karampourian A, Hiva Azami H. Risk assessment of biological hazards to the nurses using ‘Failure Modes and Effects Analysis’ (FMEA) in the intensive care unit. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(6):646−651; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i6.2200
Received: April 11, 2023; Revised: October 08, 2023; Accepted: : October 08, 2023
