Worksheets with embedded checklists support IV chemotherapy safer practice

Abstract

Following a review of a chemotherapy medication adverse event where the incorrect medication was prepared by a pharmacy, a number of steps were taken to review the literature and best practice information related to checking processes for the preparation of parenteral chemotherapy. Concepts such as identification of critical stop check points, independent double checks, and human factors principles were reviewed and incorporated into newly designed chemotherapy preparation worksheets with embedded checklists. Usability testing and staff feedback during implementation revealed a number of key learning points that resulted in additional work to further improve the chemotherapy worksheets with embedded checklists and highlighted the need for a culture of continuous quality improvement.

Keywords: Checklists; best practices; chemotherapy; critical stop check points; human factors; independent double checks; usability testing; worksheets.