Human factors in trauma and orthopaedic surgery: a short overview

A human factors (HF) approach can help optimize individual and team performance in healthcare and across related professions that work together. Trauma and orthopaedic surgeons carry out high-stakes tasks within a cognitively and physically demanding environment. This is compounded by the challenges of working in complex healthcare systems. Error is a ‘normal’ part of being human, and must be managed in order to prevent harm to patients and staff. HF is the science of how people work within their teams, and in the workplace. It examines interactions with equipment, and the processes used to achieve the desired outcome. It uses theory from fields as diverse as ergonomics, psychology and engineering in order to achieve these aims. This article outlines key topics relevant to surgeons striving to help improve patient safety and wellbeing within teams. These include theories of error in healthcare, systems-based approaches, performance-limiting factors, and non-technical skills.