Effectiveness of the positive nursing practice environment promotion program in improving patient safety in primary health care: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial

Background In the past decade, interest in researching nursing practice environments has significantly increased. Multiple studies have highlighted that enhancing these environments offer substantial benefits. A strong association has been established between the nursing practice environment and key factors such as professional satisfaction, safety climate, staff retention, and the quality and safety of care delivered.

Aim This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Positive Nursing Practice Environment Promotion Program in Improving Patient Safety in Primary Health Care

Design & Setting A randomized clinical trial will compare changes in nurses' perceptions of the safety climate and nursing practice environment in primary healthcare units. The sample will include at least 34 nurses participating in the program and currently working in primary healthcare units. The sociodemographic and professional characteristics of the participants will be analyzed, and stratified randomization will be conducted.

Method The intervention group will participate in the Program for Promoting Positive Nursing Practice Environments (PPAPEP), consisting of six training sessions, each lasting three hours. The program’s goal is to empower nurses by providing knowledge about what constitutes a Positive Nursing Practice Environment and equipping them with tools to improve their practice environment. The outcomes of the intervention will be assessed both at the end of the program and three months after its conclusion.

Conclusion We anticipate that this study will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of a capacity-building program targeted at nurses and its impact on their perceptions regarding the safety climate and nursing practice environment.