Influence of organizational culture in the quality management of a teaching hospital

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the influence of symbolic elements of organizational culture in quality management and patient safety. Methods: qualitative research, using the case study strategy. A total of 18 intentionally chosen managers participated. Data collection took place through observation, document analysis and interviews and, subsequently, it was subjected to thematic content analysis. Results: the following symbolic elements were identified: the strength of the university’s culture, the power of the doctor, the power of the teacher, the steadiness and professional autonomy and collegiate decisions. Such elements influence the management of patient quality and safety, as there is low adherence to change proposals. Conclusion: the symbolic elements maintain the traditional work practices, shared by the group, which make it difficult to adhere to the proposals for quality management and patient safety.