Inspired by the ‘butterfly effect,’ where even small actions can create far-reaching impacts, this award honours projects that have successfully implemented innovative practices with measurable, evidence-based impacts on patient safety, emphasizing a no-tech or low-tech approach.

 

Created in partnership with Spanish organizations FIDISP, FISABIO, SECA, and SENSAR, the Butterfly Impact Award celebrates innovation through accessible approaches. “Our goal with this award was not only to recognize impactful innovations but also to encourage exchange and mutual learning. This is why we chose to highlight projects not restricted by commercial licenses, whose creators are committed to sharing their practices openly for broader adoption,” said Penilla Gunther, President of the European Patient Safety Foundation, during her introductory speech announcing the finalists.

 

An independent panel of patient safety experts evaluated each submission based on level of innovation, proven impact on patient safety, involvement of healthcare professionals and patients, and the feasibility and adaptability of each project across various contexts. The panel, representing healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and industry, selected three outstanding projects as finalists.

 

Following presentations by the finalists, the conference audience cast their votes, and we are delighted to announce that the winner of the 2024 Butterfly Impact Award in Patient Safety is:

 

The ERNST Consortium (COST Action 19113): The European Researchers’ Network Working on Second Victims

Presented by Prof. José Joaquín Mira of Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Spain, and Prof. Reinhard Strametz of Wiesbaden Institute for Healthcare Economics and Patient Safety (WiHelP), Germany, this project supports healthcare professionals experiencing emotional distress following patient safety incidents, commonly known as “second-victim syndrome.” Through a collaborative network, the ERNST Consortium provides essential resources to reduce long-term psychological impacts on these professionals, ultimately enhancing patient safety and outcomes. 

 

Second Prize - Eliminating Thirst and Dehydration Before Surgery and Procedural Sedation

Led by Dr. Anne Rüggeberg and Dr. Eike Nickel from Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring in Berlin, Germany, this project addresses a critical yet often overlooked issue in pre-operative care. By implementing “unrestricted drinking before surgery using fasting cards,” they have redefined fasting protocols to minimize patient discomfort and complications, underscoring the impact of patient-centered, low-tech innovations. The open-source concept “Fasting Cards”, which is already available in many different languages at www.fastingcards.com, can be easily adopted by all medical facilities

 

Third Prize - Effective Communication and Patient Safety Among Nurses in Perioperative Settings

Presented by Mrs. Doina Carmen Mazilu and Mrs. Viorica Nedelcu from The Order of Nurses, Midwives, and Medical Assistants, Bucharest Branch (OAMGMAMR) in Romania, this project strengthens communication practices among perioperative nurses, enhancing teamwork and reinforcing safety protocols in high-stakes environments to ensure better patient outcomes. 

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Congratulations to the winner and a heartfelt thank you to all participants in this award competition. Your dedication to advancing patient safety through innovative, shareable practices is truly inspiring and deserves our deepest respect and support. We wish you continued success in your efforts!

 

We warmly invite anyone interested in adapting or replicating these projects within their own work environments to reach out for further information.

 

Through the Butterfly Impact Award, the European Patient Safety Foundation continues to foster collaboration and innovation, building a safer healthcare environment across Europe. We warmly invite healthcare professionals, organisations, and patient advocates to collaborate with us in advancing patient safety.