Patient Safety Huddles: A Simple Tool to Reduce Risk and Improve Team Communication

In this episode, we talk with Copic Patient Safety and Risk Manager Kayla Boyd about patient safety huddles and how these brief, structured meetings can help care teams identify risks before they lead to adverse events. The conversation covers what effective huddles look like, including how to keep them focused, timely, multidisciplinary, and action oriented. Kayla also discusses the evidence behind huddles, common barriers to implementation, and why leadership support, rotating facilitation, and follow-through are key to making them meaningful. Plus, you’ll hear practical examples of what teams can discuss during a huddle from high-risk patients and staffing concerns to equipment issues, near misses, and opportunities to celebrate “great catches.” Feedback or episode ideas email the show at [email protected] Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal, or financial decisions and you should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice that pertains to your situation. Health care providers should exercise their professional judgment in connection with the provision of healthcare services. The information contained in this podcast is not intended to be, nor is it, a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, advice, or judgment relative to a patient’s specific condition.