COVID-19 Pandemic's Lasting Impact on Patient Safety in U.S. Hospitals

A recent study published in *Nursing Research* has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected patient safety indicators in U.S. hospitals. Conducted by Penn Nursing's Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Research (CHOPR), the study analyzed data from the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators to examine trends in nursing-sensitive quality indicators from 2019 to 2022. These indicators, which include falls, bloodstream infections from central line catheters, urinary tract infections from urinary catheters, pressure injuries from devices or immobility, and pneumonia associated with ventilator use, are considered crucial elements of nursing care.

The findings indicate that the rates of these adverse events rose significantly during the pandemic. Although some rates have started to decline, they have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. Such events delay patients' recovery, comfort, and ability to return home. Eileen T. Lake, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Edith Clemmer Steinbright Professor in Gerontology and Associate Director of CHOPR, stated, "The pandemic placed an immense strain on healthcare systems and frontline workers, and the impact on patient safety is evident in these data. It's crucial that we address the ongoing challenges faced by nurses and invest in this professional workforce."

The study emphasizes the importance of supporting nurses and ensuring they have the necessary resources to deliver high-quality care. Furthermore, it underscores the need for continued efforts to enhance patient safety indicators, even as the pandemic subsides.

The co-authors of the study include Angela Pascale, PhD, a Research Analyst; Nora E. Warshawsky, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, a Nurse Scientist; Jessica G. Smith, PhD, RN; Douglas Staiger, PhD; and Jeannette A. Rogowski, PhD, all contributing their expertise to highlight the critical role of nursing in patient safety.