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Research shows improvements, concerns around medication safety

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, June 8, 2005

A new study conducted by a national market research firm revealed that 72% of 216 nurses across the country say that their hospitals have improved medication safety in the last five years. However, 94% of respondents witnessed at least one serious medication error within the same timeframe, indicating the need for continuous improvement. Eighty percent of the sample attributed the safety enhancements to new technology. For instance, nurses at University Health System (UHS), a Magnet-designated hospital in Augusta, GA, have access to online patient information and chart their care online as an example of their commitment to safe, high-quality patient care. According to a UHS official, organizations need to clearly understand what frontline nurses think and experience to achieve safer care. After hospitals recognize the issues at the bedside, they can design and implement appropriate strategies, such as technology, to promote safer practices for patients and more supportive and rewarding atmospheres for nurses.     

Source: Yahoo News

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