Safety in the clinical environment

Abstract In addition to upholding professional nursing values and behaviours at all times, nurses also have a duty to ensure that the clinical environment in which they work is safe. This responsibility extends to the safety of patients, the public, colleagues, and any visitors to the clinical area. The safety of clinical environments is largely regulated by law and managed through strict local policies and operating procedures. This chapter outlines some key aspects of safety in the clinical environment which impact nurses’ daily work.