The guide from the NPSA presents evidence, examples and best practice guidance on managing patient safety through seven core activities – a straightforward checklist for building an effective patient safety management programme.

The seven steps are a simple but comprehensive approach for healthcare organisations to plan, organise, measure and improve patient safety:

1. Build a safety culture
2. Lead and support your staff
3. Integrate your risk management activity
4. Promote reporting
5. Involve and communicate with patients and the public
6. Learn and share safety lessons
7. Implement solutions to prevent harm