Clinical Pharmacology & Biopharmaceutics
Open Access

Abstract

Objective: The study objective was to design and implement an educational program to raise the awareness of in-patient nursing staff about medication errors and other medication-related safety issues. Method: A sample of in-patient nursing staff in Al Ain Hospital (n=370) was included in the study and completed a self-reported questionnaire about medication errors. A structured program was developed and used by the clinical pharmacists to identify the nursing knowledge on medication errors and other medication-related safety issues. The program consisted of a pre/post self-reported questionnaire, a training service, educational material, successive presentations and handouts. The self-reported questionnaire included twenty closed questions asking nurses opinions about medication errors. A training program on medication safety (Med Safe tool) was carried out by [clinical pharmacy team (n=2) and quality coordinator nurse (n=1)], for each group of 10 nurses. Main outcome measure: The study outcomes were the change in mean scores pre and post intervention. Results: Findings revealed differences in the knowledge of nurses about the causes and reporting of medication errors. There were statistically significant differences in responses across the participantâ��s years of experience and the current clinical working area. The participantâ��s responses improved significantly [57.4%�±8.2, (95% CI: 56.6-58.2) vs. 68.9�±10.3, (95% CI: 67.8-69.9); p<0.05] pre and post questionnaire, respectively. Conclusions: The clinical pharmacistâ��s structured program has improved knowledge of the in-patient nursing staff in terms of raising their awareness about medication errors.

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