Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of patient safety perception (PSP) in the relationship between the right to know (RtK) and patient participation (PP) among inpatients.
Methods
This descriptive study used a convenience sample of inpatients from three small and medium-sized hospitals in October 2023. A total of 231 inpatients completed a self-report questionnaire assessing PP, RtK, and PSP. Data were analyzed using a mediation model with the PROCESS Macro (Model 4), applying 95% bias-corrected bootstrap confidence intervals.
Results
The findings revealed significant positive correlations between PP and RtK (r=.78, p<.001) and PSP (r=.83, p<.001). Both RtK and PSP had significant effects on PP. PSP was identified as an important mediator in the relationship between RtK and PP (B=.35, boot standard error=.06, 95% confidence interval=.27–.44). The findings confirm that inpatients’ RtK is associated with improved PSP and increased PP.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the critical role of safeguarding patients’ right to information as a strategy for promoting patient safety. To ensure safe and effective care in small and medium-sized hospitals, ongoing support is essential for developing and systematically implementing patient safety education initiatives that actively involve patients.