Patient Safety Act-Performance Indicators

The Patient Safety Act is an Act to Improve Patient Safety and Health Systems Accountability in Nova Scotia

It requires acute care facilities within the Nova Scotia Health Zones and IWK to report adherence rates for hand hygiene of health care workers (HCWs) both publicly and to the Department of Health and Wellness (DHW) on a Quarterly basis. This information is meant to raise awareness and educate Nova Scotians about the importance of hand hygiene, which is any action to properly clean the hands.

The rates for healthcare associated C. difficile infections are also reported. C. difficile is a bacteria that can live in the bowel without causing harm, or can cause an infection, such as diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain. Other indicators that are reported include Central Line-Associated Bloodstream infections, MRSA Bloodstream Infections and Healthcare Worker Influenza Immunizations.

The Patient Safety Act is an enabling Act and allows for the addition of other rates of hospital acquired infections to the list of publicly reportable indicators. By monitoring rates over time, we can track improvements and develop strategies to address any areas of concern.

Performance Indicators

Public Reporting of Patient Safety Indicators- NS Department of Health and Wellness