AbstractAimsTo explore adverse event reporting in the surgical department through the nurses' experiences and perspectives.DesignAn exploratory, descriptive qualitative study was conducted with a theoretical‐methodological orientation of phenomenology.MethodsIn‐depth interviews were conducted with 15 nurses, followed by an inductive thematic analysis.ResultsThemes include motives for reporting incidents, consequences, feelings and motivational factors. Key facilitators of adverse event reporting were effective communication, knowledge sharing, a non‐punitive culture and superior feedback.ConclusionThe study underscores the importance of supportive organisational culture for reporting, communication and feedback mechanisms, and highlights education and training in enhancing patient safety.ImplicationsIt suggests the need for strategies that foster incident reporting, enhance patient safety and cultivate a supportive organisational culture.ImpactThis study provides critical insights into adverse event reporting in surgical departments from nurses' lived experience, leading to two primary impacts: It offers specific solutions to improve adverse event reporting, which is crucial for surgical departments to develop more effective and tailored reporting strategies. The research underscores the importance of an open, supportive culture in healthcare, which is vital for transparent communication and effective reporting, ultimately advancing patient safety.Reporting MethodThe study followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.Patients or Public ContributionNo patients or public contribution.