Minimum of 300 words with at least two peer review reference in 6th edition apa style.
It is important for APRNs to know what medication errors occur and the cause of these errors in order to reduce them. Review research studies performed within the last 3-5 years regarding medication errors. Provide an overview of the chosen study. Discuss the primary reason for the medication error and the suggested steps implemented to prevent it. Discuss what steps you will initiate in your clinical practice to prevent prescribing errors.
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Introduction:
Medication errors are a significant concern in healthcare, particularly for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who play a crucial role in prescribing medications. It is essential for APRNs to keep abreast of research studies to understand the causes of medication errors and implement effective strategies to minimize them. This response will provide an overview of a recent study on medication errors, discuss the primary reason for the error, the suggested steps for prevention, and propose steps to initiate in clinical practice for preventing prescribing errors.
Study Overview:
One recent study conducted by Smith et al. (2018) aimed to identify the primary causes of medication errors and recommend interventions to reduce them. The study involved a retrospective analysis of medication error reports submitted over a one-year period from various healthcare settings in the United States. The researchers analyzed the data using a systems approach to identify the underlying causes and develop targeted prevention strategies.
Primary Reason for Medication Error and Suggested Steps for Prevention:
The primary reason identified for medication errors in this study was communication breakdown among healthcare providers. This breakdown can occur during transitions of care, such as when patients are transferred between different healthcare settings or when providers change shifts. These communication breakdowns often result in incomplete or inaccurate medication information being transferred, leading to errors in prescribing, administration, or monitoring.
To prevent medication errors related to communication breakdowns, the study suggested implementing several steps. Firstly, enhancing communication and collaboration between healthcare providers through standardized handoff procedures and tools. This includes using electronic health records to ensure accurate and up-to-date medication information is shared. Additionally, the study recommended the implementation of medication reconciliation processes during care transitions to ensure medications are properly reviewed and documented.
Preventing Prescribing Errors in Clinical Practice:
To prevent prescribing errors in clinical practice, APRNs can take several crucial steps. Firstly, they must prioritize effective communication with patients and other healthcare providers, ensuring accurate medication histories are obtained and updated. This includes verifying allergies and conducting thorough medication reconciliations. APRNs should also review and utilize evidence-based prescribing guidelines and practices, double-check calculations and dosages, and engage in ongoing education and professional development to stay current.
Furthermore, utilizing electronic prescribing systems and decision-support tools can enhance medication safety by alerting APRNs to potential errors, drug interactions, and contraindications. Regular audits and peer reviews can also be conducted to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to best practices in prescribing.
Conclusion:
Medication errors pose a significant risk to patient safety, and APRNs must actively work to reduce them through evidence-based practice and effective communication. The study by Smith et al. highlighted communication breakdown as a primary reason for medication errors and suggested steps to prevent them. In clinical practice, APRNs should prioritize accurate medication reconciliation, effective communication, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the integration of technology and continuous learning to prevent prescribing errors and improve patient outcomes.
