NURS FPX 4020 Assessment 4 Improvement Plan Tool Kit Leveraging Technology to Enhance Patient Safety to Reduce Medication Error

Leveraging Technology to Enhance Patient Safety to Reduce Medication Error

Abraham, J., Kitsiou, S., Meng, A., Burton, S., Vatani, H., & Kannampallil, T. (2020). Effects of CPOE-based medication ordering on outcomes: An overview of systematic reviews. BMJ Quality & Safety, 29(10), 1–2. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjqs-2019-010436 

The systematic review on integrating Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) with Clinical Decision Support (CDS) systems to enhance patient safety and reduce medication errors provides a comprehensive analysis of the existing evidence. The findings suggest a consistent positive impact of CPOE systems on medication safety outcomes, particularly in reducing medication errors and adverse drug events (ADEs).

Analysis revealed a significant decrease in medication ordering errors with CPOE use, ranging from 54% to 92%. These findings underscore the critical role of CPOE systems in enhancing medication safety and reducing adverse events associated with medication use. Integrating CPOE with CDS promises to improve patient safety and reduce medication errors. However, further research is warranted to address existing limitations and build upon the current evidence base. Standardizing methodologies, conducting multi-center studies, and evaluating the effectiveness of CPOE systems in diverse healthcare settings are crucial steps toward optimizing medication safety and improving patient outcomes.

Ho, J., & Burger, D. (2020). Improving medication safety practice at a community hospital: A focus on bar code medication administration scanning and pain reassessment. BMJ Open Quality, 9(3), e000987. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjoq-2020-000987 

Integrating Barcoded Medication Administration (BCMA) systems has proven to be a pivotal strategy in enhancing patient safety and reducing medication errors. This approach utilizes barcoding technology to ensure that the correct medication is administered to the right patient at the appropriate time, thereby minimizing the risk of human error. To optimize the BCMA system, a series of Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were implemented. Initially, baseline data on medication scanning compliance and pain reassessment documentation were established. Regular audits and feedback loops were then introduced to address non-compliance. Education sessions reinforced the importance of adhering to BCMA protocols. Further enhancements included the development of weekly compliance dashboards and a user non-compliance dashboard.

These tools provided real-time feedback to nursing staff and managers, highlighting areas needing improvement and recognizing high performers. A house-wide scanning competition also motivated staff to achieve higher compliance rates through positive reinforcement and recognition. Implementing these strategies led to significant improvements in medication scanning rates and pain reassessment compliance, demonstrating that continuous monitoring, feedback, and staff engagement are critical to sustaining high standards in patient safety practices. The project reduced medication errors and achieved substantial cost savings by preventing adverse drug events. Integrating BCMA systems, supported by structured PDSA cycles and performance monitoring, significantly enhances patient safety and reduces medication errors in healthcare settings.

NURS FPX 4020 Assessment 4 Improvement Plan Tool Kit

Craswell, A., Bennett, K., Dalgliesh, B., Smith, B. M., Hanson, J., Flynn, T., & Wallis, M. (2020). The impact of automated medicine dispensing units on nursing workflow: A cross-sectional study. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 111, 103773. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2020.103773 

The study evaluated the integration of automated medication dispensing units to enhance patient safety and reduce medication errors in a hospital setting. Most staff, including nurses and pharmacy assistants, were satisfied with the automated dispensing cabinets. However, concerns were raised regarding their impact on workflow, particularly medication access. Nurses from general wards generally reported more positive responses than those from specialty areas such as intensive care units and emergency departments. These differences in perception highlight the importance of considering the specific needs of different clinical areas when implementing such systems. Observational data revealed that the automated dispensing cabinets were widely utilized across various clinical areas, with the highest frequency of transactions observed in the inpatient medical w