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Effect of barcode technology on medication preparation safety: a quasi-experimental study
Abstract Background Medication errors are a common problem in hospitals and a major driver of adverse patient outcomes. Barcode verification technology is a promising strategy to help ensure safe medication preparation practices. Objectives The objectives of this study were (i) to assess the effects...
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| Published in: | International journal for quality in health care 2021-03, Vol.33 (1) |
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Citations: | Items that this one cites Items that cite this one |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Abstract
Background
Medication errors are a common problem in hospitals and a major driver of adverse patient outcomes. Barcode verification technology is a promising strategy to help ensure safe medication preparation practices.
Objectives
The objectives of this study were (i) to assess the effects of a barcode-assisted medication preparation and administration system regarding the rate of medication preparation errors and (ii) to compare the time spent on medication preparation tasks by medical staff.
Methods
A quasi-experimental study with a pre–post design was conducted, from August 2017 to July 2018, in two mixed medical/surgical units of a tertiary teaching hospital. The primary aim was to assess the effects of a barcode-based electronically assisted medication preparation and administration system linked to the hospital’s electronic medication administration record regarding the rate of medication preparation errors and time-based staff performance. Data were collected using direct observation. Adjusted and unadjusted logistic models were used for error frequencies and linear regression models for time performance.
Results
5932 instances of medication selection and dosing during 79 medication preparation procedures were observed. The overall medication preparation error incidence decreased from 9.9% at baseline to 4.5% at post-intervention, corresponding to a relative risk reduction of 54.5% (P |
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| ISSN: | 1353-4505 1464-3677 |
| DOI: | 10.1093/intqhc/mzab043 |