Dementia care homes must maintain detailed documentation for each patient. This includes records of medication, allergy information, and more. Proper documentation is crucial; failure to maintain it can compromise care and even endanger residents. In addition, inadequate documentation exposes dementia care homes to legal liabilities. Here, we explore common documentation errors that can affect these…
Mistakes in writing prescriptions are one of the common types of medication errors. They are a matter of utmost concern in the healthcare industry. If people do not find and fix these mistakes quickly, it can seriously hurt patients and may even endanger their lives. The effects of these mistakes can be small or very…
A well-written prescription ensures that the patient receives the proper medication, in the correct dosage, and at the appropriate times. It is the responsibility of healthcare professionals to prioritise clear and detailed prescription writing to enhance patient safety and care quality. Here, we explore some of the useful insights on well-written prescriptions prevent medication errors…
Medication omission errors are a serious concern in healthcare facilities. They occur when a necessary medication is not provided to a patient due to various reasons such as incomplete prescription, lack of medication administration, or dispensing errors. These errors are particularly alarming when it involves “high-alert medications,” which are drugs that pose a significant risk…
The route of medication administration is a fundamental aspect of patient care, directly impacting the treatment’s effectiveness and safety. By prioritising the correct medication route, healthcare professionals can significantly enhance patient outcomes and minimise the risk of adverse effects. Here, we explore the importance of following the correct routes for medication administration. First, let’s understand…
In order to significantly reduce the incidence of medication administration errors within healthcare settings, it is imperative to employ a detailed and systematic checklist. This checklist should include a multitude of steps, each rigorously designed to address specific areas prone to errors. Here, we share some of the useful insights on the checklist for avoiding…
The electronic medication administration record (eMAR) system is a segment of the broader electronic health record (EHR). Its primary role is to capture the specifics of drug administration in healthcare settings. This platform has a wealth of information, from patient-specific drug data, dosages, and prescriptions to potential drug interactions and side effects, all stored in…
Medication administration errors are a recurring concern in nursing homes. These lapses can impact the well-being of the patients. Such lapses often occur when a patient transitions between facilities or when there’s a change in the caregiving team, leading to a disconnect with the exact medication dosages and timetables. This situation highlights the need for…
Medication errors in nursing homes can have severe consequences for the health and well-being of residents. However, by implementing effective strategies, nursing home managers or supervisors can greatly reduce the risk of these errors. Here, we will explore some of the useful insights to avoid different types of medication errors in nursing homes. Transparent and…
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are one of the popular types of medical record systems. They are important for the right care and treatment of patients. They are digital records of an individual’s medical history, medicines, allergies, and much more. Using this data, doctors can make crucial decisions for their patients. EHR comprises several components. Below,…