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Unfortunately medication errors do occasionally occur. These can be very dangerous for the patient and could ultimately cost a nurse her job. However there are some simple measures to ensure that there are no medication errors when you are looking after a patient.

KNOW YOUR PATIENT.

Before administering any medication check your patients name and date of birth. If the patient is not conscious be sure to check the patients wrist for their identity band. It is not safe to assume that the patient sat on Mrs Smith's bed is actually Mrs Smith, as patients have been known to wander. Always err on the side of caution.

DOUBLE CHECK ANY DRUG CARDS.

Doctors are renowned for their illegible handwriting. Make sure that you have read their instructions carefully and fully understand them before administering any medication. Make doubly sure that the strengths and dosage are correct. Many wards now have a second nurse check any injections being prepared to safeguard the patient and the nurse.

IF IN DOUBT CHECK.

Most wards in English hospitals have a Mimms or a BNF, British National Formulary, on the ward. Other countries will have similar reference books. These books give lots of information about drugs and possible side effects . It will tell you of any contraindications and recommended doses. Never be frightened to question a Doctor's suggested medication as, like everyone, they can make mistakes.

LISTEN TO YOUR PATIENT.

If a doctor has written up a drug, that the patient is telling you they are allergic to, it needs sorting out and checking. Often Doctors only see the patients fleetingly. The nurse may know the patient more and have found out much more information, which will be helpful in caring for a patient.

READ THE PATIENTS CASE OR HOSPITAL NOTES.

Known allergies should have been noted in a prominent place in the casenotes. By checking the patient's previous medical history, and keeping a current up to date nursing care plan, the nurse should be able to assess any potential problems and avoid them arising.

OVERALL
If in doubt wait until you have checked everything out. Often medication can be given a little late. This may be a much safer option than just blindly administering something which could, ultimately, prove fatal.

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
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