Keywords

medical errors, medication errors, nursing, patient safety, quality assurance, risk management

Authors

1. Maricle, Karen MS, RN, CNAA
2. Whitehead, Lynn BSN, RN
3. Rhodes, Mattie PhD, RN

Abstract

This project examined the accuracy of medication administration by nurses at a large tertiary hospital. Registered nurses were prepared to directly observe medication administration. Observations were made of 1514 doses administered by 30 nurses on 3 units, on day and evening shifts. Few (5%) medication errors were found. The most frequent errors were wrong technique, wrong time, and omission. Results suggest examination of medication policies, assessment of medication administration competency, and targeted in-service education.