Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What is one goal of the National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs)?

1. Identify patient safety risks

2. Reduce healthcare costs

3. Optimize hospital layouts

4. Limit staff training programs

The correct answer is: Identify patient safety risks

One of the primary goals of the National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs) is to identify patient safety risks. This is crucial in fostering a safe environment for patients by actively detecting and mitigating potential hazards that could lead to adverse events. By focusing on patient safety risks, healthcare organizations can implement targeted strategies and interventions designed to improve outcomes, enhance the quality of care, and ensure that patients receive safe, effective treatment. Identifying these risks involves systematic evaluations and assessments of clinical practices, processes, and the environment of care. It encourages the establishment of a safety culture within healthcare organizations, promoting transparency and communication about safety practices among all staff members. The other options relate to important aspects of healthcare but do not align with the specific focus of NPSGs. For example, reducing healthcare costs is an important goal but is typically addressed through efficiency in operations and resource management, rather than directly linked to patient safety. Optimizing hospital layouts can contribute to improved workflow and safety, yet it is not a direct goal of NPSGs. Finally, limiting staff training programs does not align with the intent of the NPSGs, which emphasize the importance of continuous education and training in maintaining high safety standards and proficient clinical practices.