POSSIBLE ERRORS IN DRUG ADMINISTRATION

There can be various reasons for error in administering drugs:

i) Poor communication of intention by the prescriber.

ii) Failure to keep an established routine when administering therapy.

iii) Lack of understanding of the objectives of therapy.

iv) Failure of the nurse to recognize that the medical officers and pharmacy departments may make errors.

v) Poor concentration or constant interruption.

vi) Ignoring the need for an experienced person to double check the drug, the dose, identification of the patient and any previously administered preparation.

vii) Failure to calculate to one's own satisfaction.

viii) Failure to learn appropriate paediatric doses of commonly used medications.

ix) Lack of knowledge regarding drug interaction and side effects.

x) Inadequate security of drug storage.

xi) Failure to record administered doses.

If you are in doubt, do not give the medication, however no medication should be omitted without the medical officers order.

If an error is made, a medical officer must be informed and action prescribed to be carried out. An incident form should be completed. It is necessary to report this incident to your sister incharge/senior nursing staff/doctor.