Identifying the Key Elements of Psychologically Safe Workplaces in Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Background: Psychological safety is a key concern in the workplace as organisations continue to see increases in psychological injuries that have significant ramifications on individuals and workplaces. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue in healthcare workforces facing extraordinary pressures. This preliminary study aims to enhance our understanding of the factors that healthcare workers value in relation to psychological safety in their respective healthcare settings. Methods: To achieve the research objective, qualitative self-reflection examples were conducted with 12 participants from various health professional backgrounds across public, private, and aged-care settings. The data obtained were thematically analysed using NVivo software (V 12), enabling the identification of key elements associated with psychologically safe workplaces. Results: The results revealed several significant elements that contribute to psychologically safe workplaces in healthcare settings. These elements include effective communication, organisational culture, leadership practices, performance feedback mechanisms, respect among colleagues, staff development opportunities, teamwork, and trust. The findings underscore the critical importance of these foundational elements in fostering psychological safety within healthcare. Conclusion: This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by specifically identifying the key elements that healthcare workers value in terms of psychological safety. By exploring a wide range of healthcare professionals’ perspectives, this research offers valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by healthcare workforces and the necessary conditions for fostering psychological safety. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the lessons they provide for healthcare employers, highlighting the potential for improving workplace wellbeing and performance.