Job Description

** General Summary**

In collaboration with the Vice President, Quality and Patient Safety, the role of Patient Safety Officer (PSO) provides strategic leadership of the UM BWMC Patient Safety Program. The PSO is responsible for coordinating the efforts of leadership and front-line staff to focus on improving patient safety and reducing harm. The PSO will work with leadership and staff to establish accountability and eliminate intimidating behavior, promote open communication among clinical disciplines to prevent recurrence of events and educate staff at all levels. The PSO will work to establish a blameless and supporting environment that balances a non-punitive response to human error with the appropriate level of accountability for reckless behavior. In addition, the PSO will facilitate feedback from front line staff regarding opportunities for improvement and will systematically implement effective programs and creative initiatives to reduce harm. The PSO will engage staff at all levels to maintain ongoing compliance with safety initiatives, regulatory standards, and will participate in patient rounding activities that support continuous regulatory readiness.

** Mission**

All employees are responsible for extending the mission, values, and Standards of Service Excellence of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center by dedicating oneself to providing the highest quality healthcare services to the communities we serve.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in nursing or health care related field required.
• Master’s Degree in nursing or health care related field preferred.
• Five (5) years of clinically based experience in a hospital environment that includes patient safety experience and a comprehensive knowledge of patient safety, The Joint Commission standards and regulations is required.
• Current Maryland RN licensure preferred. Other applicable clinical role with patient safety experience in a health system preferred.
• Prior leadership responsibility with a proven track record of implementing change in a complex environment preferred.

** Working Conditions**

Normal office environment and unit clinical setting. Works inside a clean, well-lighted environment. May be exposed to frequent interruptions and multiple demands. Work is high demand. Potential for minimal exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous materials requires the observance of standard precaution and safe handling practices. This position has been classified as low or no exposure risk and does not require the completion of an annual testing, but may require "just in time" testing if the need arises.

** Physical Requirements**

Must be able to sit for most of work period. Standing, walking, stooping, and bending are required. Must articulate clearly and have excellent listening skills for telephone communication and interacting with customers. Visual acuity to read medical records, department literature, data reports and video display monitors required. Lifting of less than 25 pounds with frequent handling of records and reports. Reaching for and handling of equipment and supplies. Manual dexterity to use a keyboard.

Additional Information

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