COMMON CAUSES OF MEDICATION ERRORS

 

When a patient is admitted to a healthcare facility, 
 information such as allergies, past medical history,
 height, weight and medications taken, are all recorded.

This type of information is very important, as it will help
 the doctor when prescribing medications. It will also be
of use to the pharmacist with providing correct drug dosages.

Regardless of where a nurse works, medication administration 
 is done.The nurse who gives drugs of any kind, should take time, 
to ensure that everything is done correctly.

 Learn more: Nursing fundamentals

Helpful information for the clinical nurse
    Here are some of the ways in which errors may occur: 

- Misreading MD orders. If the nurse is  

                              uncertain aboout an order , it is best to communicate with the 

                               doctor or pharmacist.                                     

                              - Poor communication of information, for example,

                                when a patient is  transferred from one unit 

                                 to another.

                              - Improper dilution of medication ( always check 

                               manufacturer's instructions for proper dilution).            

                              - Drug incompatibility : an example - Dilantin is mixed with

                                Normal Saline.                          

                             - Confusing one drug with another, as some drugs have similar                                     names. 

                                  

                                           - Distraction, like having a conversation while administering

                                            medications .             

                                           - Forgetting to document medications when given.   

 

Clinical judgement