Patient Safety Children Books

Patient safety is one of the top global concerns in public health. Each year, 134 million adverse events occur annually in hospitals in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to at least 3 million deaths due to unsafe care (World Health Organization, 2023). Unsafe care is one of the 10 leading causes of death and disability across the world (World Health Organization, 2019). These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for improved patient safety measures. By educating children about these crucial concepts early on, we aim to build a foundation for a future where safer care is the norm rather than the exception.

Safety Starts with Knowledge: Championing Patient Safety via Children’s Books

The World Patients Alliance (WPA), Elsevier and the Elsevier Foundation are collaborating on an inspiring initiative to raise awareness about patient safety through a series of children’s books. This innovative project aims to instill fundamental patient safety principles in children aged six to twelve, fostering a culture of safer care for the future.

The launch of this series marks a significant milestone in our collective mission to improve health literacy among younger generations. By presenting critical patient safety information in a child-friendly format, we aim to empower children, families, and educators to engage in meaningful conversations about health and safety. These books serve as valuable educational tools that can be utilized both at home and in schools.

The series comprises five beautifully illustrated books, available online for free, that engage children with captivating stories while imparting essential patient safety concepts. Currently, these books are accessible in English and Portuguese, with plans underway to translate them into additional languages, ensuring a broader global reach and impact.

We encourage parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to download these books and share them widely within their communities. By doing so, you will help us promote a safer, healthier future for all.

Download the books

Should I Take This Medicine?
Available in English and Portuguese.

Download links

Interior pages (EN)
Interior pages (PT)
Coated paper cover (EN)
Coated paper cover (PT)

I won’t wash my hands today!
Available in English and Portuguese.

Download links

Interior pages (EN)
Interior pages (PT)
Coated paper cover (EN)
Coated paper cover (PT)

I don’t want to see a doctor!
Available in English and Portuguese.

Download links

Interior pages (EN)
Interior pages (PT)
Coated paper cover (EN)
Coated paper cover (PT)

About the World Patients Alliance (WPA)

The World Patients Alliance (WPA) is the world largest umbrella patient organization that works across all disease areas and in all world regions. It provides the platform to empower and raise the patients’ voice for the provision and access to safe, quality and affordable healthcare. We work toward ensuring patients have an active role to play in all the stages of healthcare that include planning, provision, monitoring, research and evaluation of health services. We represent patients from all world regions and across all disease areas.