Enhancing patient safety in acute cardiac care: structured induction programme improves frontline doctors' emergency preparedness and reduces clinical uncertainty

Abstract Background/Introduction Patient safety in acute cardiovascular emergencies can be compromised by frontline doctors' initial clinical uncertainty. The critical transition period for new doctors has been associated with increased medical errors and adverse events, particularly in high-stakes environments like acute cardiology. [1,2] While specialised training exists, current induction methods rarely address systematic approaches to patient safety in time-critical cardiac emergencies. Purpose To evaluate whether a comprehensive, safety-focused cardiology induction programme improves frontline doctors' emergency response capabilities, reduces clinical uncertainty, and enhances safe delivery of acute cardiac care through improved protocol adherence and team integration. Methods We developed a structured acute cardiology induction program prioritising patient safety in emergency scenarios. The programme embedded safety-critical protocols for STEMI, NSTEMI, cardiogenic shock, and life-threatening arrhythmias, with clear emphasis on risk mitigation and safe handover practices. Resident doctors (n=15) completed validated assessments of their confidence and preparedness before and after implementation, using a 5-point Likert scale focusing on safety-critical domains. Results Significant safety-related improvements were demonstrated: understanding of critical protocols (mean difference 2.53, p<0.001), confidence in safe clinical practice (mean difference 1.80, p<0.001), and preparedness for emergency team integration (mean difference 2.06, p<0.001). The programme received outstanding ratings for practical safety guidance (4.60/5) and comprehensive coverage of critical scenarios (4.33/5). Notably, 93.3% of participants reported enhanced preparedness for safe management of acute cardiac presentations. Qualitative feedback emphasised improved confidence in risk recognition and safer emergency decision-making. Conclusion This patient safety initiative demonstrates significant potential for reducing clinical risk in acute cardiac care through systematic preparation of frontline clinicians. Despite pilot scale, the magnitude of improvement suggests meaningful impact on safe emergency care delivery. While larger-scale validation is planned, these preliminary findings provide a promising framework for improving patient safety in acute cardiovascular care. Implementation of similar safety-focused approaches could help standardise and enhance protection of vulnerable cardiac patients during critical transitions of care.