The Medication Error form is designed to report any incidents or discrepancies related to medication. This includes both errors that have affected a patient and those that have not yet reached the patient. It serves as a tool for pharmacists to document and communicate issues that could impact patient safety.
Who is responsible for initiating the report?
The pharmacist who discovers the medication error is responsible for initiating the report. This ensures that the individual most familiar with the incident provides accurate details and context for the situation.
When should a physician and pharmacy manager be notified?
Notification should occur for all medication incidents that could potentially affect a patient's health or safety. This is crucial for ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.
What types of incidents can be reported?
There are various types of incidents that can be reported on the form, including:
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Incorrect Dose
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Incorrect Dosage Form
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Incorrect Drug
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Incorrect Generic Selection
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Incorrect Patient
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Incorrect Strength
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Outdated Product
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Allergic Drug Reaction
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Incorrect Label/Directions
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Drug Unavailable/Omission
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Drug-drug Interaction
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Other (specify)
The form requires detailed patient information, including the patient's name, address, phone number, sex, date of birth, prescription number, and the pharmacist's information. Additionally, it asks for the date of the error, the type of incident, and a description of the incident or discrepancy.
What should be included in the incident description?
The incident description should state the facts as known at the time of discovery. It may include specific details about the error and any contributing factors. If necessary, additional details can be attached to the form for clarity.
How are contributing factors documented?
Contributing factors are to be completed by the pharmacist responsible for the incident. This section includes options such as improper patient identification, misreading drug orders, and lack of patient counseling. The pharmacist can also specify any other factors that contributed to the error.
The severity of the incident is categorized into several levels, including:
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None
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No change in patient’s condition: no medical intervention
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Minor required
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Major
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Produces a temporary systemic or localized response: does not cause ongoing complications
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Requires immediate medical intervention
After the form is submitted, an investigation follows to identify the problem and implement solutions. This may involve providing education, changing policies or procedures, or increasing awareness among staff. The resolution of the problem will also be documented on the form.
Is there a need for follow-up after reporting an incident?
Yes, follow-up is essential. The outcome of the investigation should be documented, including actions taken to resolve the issue and prevent recurrence. This helps to ensure accountability and improve medication safety practices within the pharmacy.