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How safety is compromised when hospital equipment is a poor fit for patients who are obese.

Kukielka E. How safety is compromised when hospital equipment is a poor fit for patients who are obese. Patient Saf J. 2020;2(1):48-56. doi:10.33940/data/2020.3.4.

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April 15, 2020
Kukielka E. Patient Saf J. 2020;2(1):48-56.
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Prior research conducted in the United Kingdom found that obesity is a contributing factor in medical errors and near misses, often due to inadequate equipment. This study used data from Pennsylvania’s statewide patient safety reporting system to characterize safety events related to monitoring and patient care for patients who are obese. From 2009-2018, 107 events were identified; nearly half of events involved MRI or CT scanners and one-quarter involved stretchers. Nearly 75% of the identified events resulted in a delay in care and 41% resulted in temporary harm (e.g., falls, pressure injuries, skin tears, abrasions). The authors summarize the literature on best practices to prevent safety events in patients who are obese, such as alternative approaches to measuring weight and girth and increasing the availability and use of alternative equipment. 
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Kukielka E. How safety is compromised when hospital equipment is a poor fit for patients who are obese. Patient Saf J. 2020;2(1):48-56. doi:10.33940/data/2020.3.4.

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