What is the goal of a safety committee in managing incidents?

The goal of a safety committee in managing incidents is to create policies that enhance safety. This focus on policy development is crucial because safety committees are tasked with identifying potential hazards, analyzing incidents, and implementing strategies to mitigate risks within the healthcare environment. By establishing comprehensive policies, the committee ensures that there are clear protocols in place for handling incidents effectively, promoting a culture of safety, and protecting both patients and staff.

Creating safety policies is a proactive measure that supports continuous improvement in safety standards and practices within the institution. These policies also facilitate training and communication among staff, which is essential for minimizing future incidents and enhancing overall patient care.

The other options do not align with the primary function of a safety committee. Reporting incidents to the media would not typically fall under the committee's activities, as their focus is on internal safety management rather than public relations. Planning financial audits is unrelated to safety management; such activities concern fiscal responsibility rather than operational safety. Similarly, solely managing human resources overlooks the broader scope of safety management, which encompasses various aspects of institutional risk, not just personnel.