Which of the following represents a common barrier to patient safety?

Underreporting of safety incidents is indeed a common barrier to patient safety. When incidents are not reported, the healthcare system lacks critical information necessary for identifying trends, understanding risks, and implementing effective interventions. Without accurate data regarding safety incidents, healthcare organizations may struggle to recognize areas needing improvement, ultimately hindering efforts to enhance patient safety.

A robust reporting culture is vital, as it allows staff to share their experiences without fear of retribution. High levels of reporting can lead to the identification of systemic issues and the sharing of lessons learned, contributing to a safer environment for patients. Therefore, underreporting acts as a significant obstacle, obscuring the real challenges that need to be addressed within healthcare settings.