Direct Observation of Medication Errors in Critical Care Setting: A Systematic Review

Crit Care Nurs Q. 2018 Jan/Mar;41(1):76-92. doi: 10.1097/CNQ.0000000000000188.

Abstract

Medication errors continue to be an issue for the critically ill and are costly to both patients and health care facilities. This article reviews published research about these errors and reports results of observational studies. The types of errors, incidence, and root causes have been considered along with adverse consequences. The implications for bedside practice as a result of this review are fairly straightforward. Medication errors are happening at an alarming rate in the critical care environment, and these errors are preventable. It is imperative that all personnel respect and follow established guidelines and procedural safeguards to ensure flawless drug delivery to patients.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Critical Care / methods*
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions* / economics
  • Humans
  • Medication Errors* / adverse effects
  • Medication Errors* / economics
  • Patient Safety / standards