Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals toward near-miss reporting

BACKGROUND: Near miss is a key component of patient safety systems, enabling organizational learning without patient harm. This study assessed healthcare professionals' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward Near miss reporting. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated self-administered online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized responses, while chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and multiple regression analyses examined associations and predictors of KAP. RESULTS: A total of 500 healthcare professionals participated. Participants demonstrated moderate knowledge and positive attitudes; however, only 25% had ever reported a near miss. Higher knowledge and attitude scores were significantly associated with older age, postgraduate education, longer tenure, and leadership roles. Postgraduate education and leadership positions were significant predictors of higher knowledge and more positive attitudes. CONCLUSION: Despite favorable knowledge and attitudes, near miss underreporting persists. Targeted education, simplified reporting systems, and strengthened leadership engagement are essential to bridge the gap between awareness and practice and improve patient safety outcomes.