Keywords

nurse practitioner, second victim, error, organizational support, peer support

Abstract

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) are a growing population of employed individuals within the healthcare system, working in outpatient and inpatient settings. Like other healthcare professionals, nurse practitioners can and do make errors while practicing. Nevertheless, little to no research has focused on them. This research aimed to better understand nurse practitioners’ attitudes towards error approach, perception, and cause using the Medical Error Attitude Scale (MEAS). Additional purposes included the further exploration of APRNs' experiences following an error and support they may or may not receive. A convenience sample of ARPNs licensed in Utah was sent an electronic survey via email. This survey contained the MEAS and additional questions concerning demographic information, error reporting, and support received following an error. Findings from our research demonstrated that APRNs have positive attitudes towards errors. Those with a formal support program within their organization, females, and those with higher levels of education had higher MEAS scores. Most of the APRNs who took the survey reported their error but were less likely to receive support after their error. The most desired form of support was peer support. More research needs to be completed on APRNs. APRNs make errors when provided care and need support designed to fit their needs and desires.