Lessons learned from implementing a Human Factors programme into an NHS trust*

Abstract

The interest in employing Human Factors (HF) in healthcare is increasing. There are very few papers that outline an approach to embedding the practical application of HF in healthcare and the lessons that can be learned. The SCReaM HF and Team Resource Management (TRM) programme is not only aimed at raising the awareness and understanding of the science of HF within healthcare, but also to embed its practical application to support staff improve their safety and wellbeing and that of their patients. The programme is divided into three strands: rolling training, HF Projects and HF Engineering. Each strand of the programme supports the use of HF by teaching and applying systems thinking methodology. The programme has been embedded into an NHS Trust and this paper provides a reflection on the approach used to help guide future attempts to integrate HF into an NHS trust.