Patient safety is a research field and methodological approach focused on the prevention of errors and adverse events in healthcare settings, aiming to minimize the risk of harm to patients during the provision of medical care. As a concept, it investigates the root causes of medical errors, system failures, and the factors contributing to unintended patient harm. Key characteristics include its multidisciplinary nature, a systemic analysis of healthcare processes, and the development and implementation of strategies for risk assessment, error detection, and mitigation. Its significance lies in enhancing the quality and reliability of healthcare delivery, reducing patient morbidity and mortality associated with medical interventions, and fostering a culture of safety within healthcare organizations.