10 Ideas for Medication Error Reduction

1. Implement a policy regarding preprinted orders.

2. Include high-hazard medication education and competency assessment in resident orientation.

3. Educate pharmacy staff in root cause analysis and how pharmacy fits on the overall process.

4. Investigate the possibility of standardized dosing.

5. Make the order entry process more user-friendly.

6. Complete a drug dictionary.

7. Educate nurses and other staff on the problems at your institution.

8. Look for patterns of problems.

9. Make sure error reporting isn’t punitive; don’t kill the messenger!

10. Replace addressograph with labels to improve clarity.

Source: Medical Management Planning, Los Angeles.