Unit 2: Pharmacology and the Nurse-Client Relationship

1. Unit 2:Pharmacology and the Nurse-Client Relationship Chapter 9: Medication Errors and Risk Reduction

2. Medication Errors �any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or client harm while the medication is in the control of the healthcare professional, client, or consumer.� Definition from the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP)

3. Medication Errors Why are medication errors such a concern? What are key factors contributing to medication errors by the health care provider? What are key factors contributing to medication errors by the client?

4. Common Medication Errors Identify examples of common medication errors in relation to: Medication administration Lack of follow-up or clinical correlation Misinterpretation of orders Who are the collaborative partners in medication administration

5. Categorizing Medication Errors NCC MERP Index for Categorizing Medication Errors Algorhythm (Figure 9.1, p. 91) Index for Categorizing Medication Errors (Figure 9.2, p. 95)

6. Nurse Practice Act and Standards of Care Explain the relationship of the Nurse Practice Act to medication error. Explain the relationship of standards of care to medication error. What is the rule of reasonable and prudent action?

7. Impact of Medication Errors Most common cause of morbidity and preventable death within hospitals No acceptable level All errors should be investigated

8. Reporting and Documenting Medication Errors Document according to agency policy. Report with an incident report. In relation to the associated legality, why is documentation of the error important?

9. Reduction of Medication Errors-Assessment Assess Food or medication allergies Current health concerns Use of OTCs and herbal supplements Review Recent laboratory tests Recent physical assessment findings Identify Need for education about medication regimen

10. Reduction of Medication Errors- Planning Use only approved abbreviations Question unclear orders Do not accept verbal orders Follow policies and procedures Ask for client participation

11. Reduction of Medication Errors-Implementation Be aware of potential distractions Remove distractions if possible Focus on medication administration task Practice six rights

12. Reduction of Medication Errors- Evaluation Assess client for expected outcomes Determine if any adverse effects have occurred How will you ensure that you pass medications safely?

13. Client Education Associated with Medication Administration Client education will decrease the number of medication errors. What needs to be provided to the client? What should the nurse teach the client?

14. Agencies that Collect and Report on Medication Errors FDA�s MedWatch Institute of Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) MedMarx

15. Reducing Medication Errors in Health Care Facilities Methods: Automated, computerized, locked cabinets for medication storage on client-care units Risk management departments Collaboration with nursing to modify policies and procedures