{"id":2865,"date":"2015-05-22T21:40:12","date_gmt":"2015-05-22T21:40:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/?post_type=chapter&#038;p=2865"},"modified":"2021-06-09T15:20:59","modified_gmt":"2021-06-09T15:20:59","slug":"6-1-safe-medication-adminstration","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/6-1-safe-medication-adminstration\/","title":{"raw":"6.2 Safe Medication Administration","rendered":"6.2 Safe Medication Administration"},"content":{"raw":"In the Institute of Medicine's often-cited book <em>To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System <\/em>(Kohn, Corrigan, &amp; Donaldson, 2000), it is\u00a0estimated that approximately 1.5-million preventable adverse drug events (ADEs) occur annually. The Joint Commission (TJC) defines medication errors as any preventable event that may cause inappropriate medication use or jeopardize patient safety (TJC, 2012).\r\n\r\nMedication errors are the number-one error in health care (Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2013). Safe and accurate medication administration is an important and potentially challenging nursing responsibility. Medication administration requires good decision-making skills and clinical judgment, and the nurse is responsible for ensuring full understanding of medication administration and its implications for patient safety.\r\n\r\nMedication errors have a substantial impact on health care in Canada (Butt, 2010). When preparing and administering medication, and assessing patients after receiving medication, always follow agency policy to ensure safe practice. Review Table 6.1 for guidelines for safe medication administration.\r\n<table style=\"width: 100%;\" border=\"1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0)\"><caption>Table 6.1 Guidelines for Safe Medication Administration<\/caption>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; text-align: left;\" colspan=\"4\">\r\n<h5>Safety Considerations:<\/h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Agency policy on medication administration and medication administration record (MAR) may vary. Always receive the required training on the use of the medication system for each agency to avoid preventable errors.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">\r\n<h4>Principle<\/h4>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">\r\n<h4>\u00a0Additional Information<\/h4>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be vigilant when preparing medications.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid distractions. Some agencies have a<strong>\u00a0no-interruption zone (NIZ)<\/strong>, where health care providers can prepare medications without interruptions.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Check for allergies.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always ask patient about allergies, types of reactions, and severity of reactions.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use two patient identifiers at all times. Always follow agency policy for patient identification.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use at least two patient identifiers before administration <em>and<\/em> compare against the MAR.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Assessment comes before medication administration.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">All medications require an assessment (review of lab values, pain, respiratory assessment, cardiac assessment, etc.) prior to medication administration to ensure the patient is receiving the correct medication for the correct reason.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be diligent in all medication calculations.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Errors in medication calculations have contributed to dosage errors, especially when adjusting or titrating dosages.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid reliance on memory; use checklists and memory aids.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Slips in memory are caused by lack of attention, fatigue, distractions.\u00a0Mistakes are often referred to as attentional behaviours where lack of training or knowledge is the cause of the error. Slips account for most errors in heath care. If possible, follow\u00a0a standard list of steps for every patient.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Communicate with your patient before and after administration.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Provide information to patient about the medication before administering it. Answer questions regarding usage, dose, and special considerations. Give the patient an opportunity to ask questions. Include family members if appropriate.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid workarounds.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">A\u00a0<strong>workaround\u00a0<\/strong>is a process that bypasses a procedure, policy, or problem in a system. For example, a nurse may \"borrow\" a medication from another patient while waiting for an order to be filled by the pharmacy. These workarounds fail to follow agency policy to ensure safe medication practices.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Ensure medication has not expired.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Medication may be inactive if expired.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always clarify an order or procedure that is unclear.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always ask for help whenever you are uncertain or unclear about an order. Consult with the pharmacist, charge nurse, or other health care providers and be sure to resolve all questions before proceeding with medication administration.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use available technology to administer medications.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Bar-code scanning (eMAR) has\u00a0decreased errors in administration by 51%, and computerized physician orders have decreased errors by 81%. Technology has the potential to help decrease errors. Use technology when administering medications but be aware of technology-induced errors.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Report all near misses, errors, and adverse reactions.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Reporting allows for analysis and identification of potential errors, which can lead to improvements and sharing of information for safer patient care.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be alert to error-prone situations and high-alert medications.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\"><strong>High-alert medications<\/strong> are those\u00a0that are most likely to cause significant harm, even when used as intended. The most common high-alert medications are\u00a0anticoagulants, narcotics and opiates, insulins, and sedatives. The types of harm most commonly associated with these medications include hypotension, delirium, bleeding, hypoglycemia, bradycardia, and lethargy.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">If a patient questions or expresses concern about\u00a0a medication,\u00a0stop and do not administer it.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">If a patient questions a medication, stop and explore the patient's concerns, review the physician's order, and, if necessary, notify the practitioner in charge of the patient.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"4\">Data source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2014; Canadian Patient Safety Institute, 2012; Debono et al., 2013; Institute for Healthcare Improvement, 2015; National Patient Safety Agency, 2009; National Priority Partnership, 2010; Prakash et al., 2014<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<h2>Technological Advances That Help Mitigate Medication Errors<\/h2>\r\nComputerized physician order entry (CPOE) is a system that allows prescribers to electronically enter orders for medications, thus eliminating the need for written orders. CPOE\u00a0increases the accuracy and legibility of medication orders; the potential for the integration of clinical decision support; and the optimization of prescriber, nurse, and pharmacist time (Agrawal, 2009). Decision support software integrated into a CPOE system can allow for the automatic checking of drug allergies, dosage indications, baseline laboratory results, and potential drug interactions. When a prescriber enters an order through CPOE, the information about the order will then transmit\u00a0to the pharmacy and ultimately to the MAR.\r\n\r\nThe use of electronic bar codes on medication labels and packaging has the potential to improve patient safety in a number of ways. A patient's MAR is entered into the hospital's information system\u00a0and encoded into the patient's wristband, which is accessible to the nurse through a handheld device. When administering a medication, the nurse scans the\u00a0patient's medical record number on the wristband, and the bar code on the drug. The computer processes the scanned information, charts it, and updates the patient's MAR record appropriately (Poon et\u00a0al., 2010).\r\n\r\nAutomated medication dispensing systems (AMDS)\u00a0provide electronic automated control of all medications, including narcotics. Each nurse accessing the system has a unique access code. The nurse will enter the patient's name, the medication, the dosage, and the route of administration. The system will then open either the patient's individual drawer or the narcotic drawer to dispense the specific medication. If the patient's electronic health record is linked to the AMDS, the medication and the nurse who accessed the system will be linked to the patient's electronic record.\r\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.patientsafetyinstitute.ca\/en\/toolsResources\/Documents\/Interventions\/Medication%20Reconciliation\/Home\/Top%2010%20Practical%20Tips%20-%20How%20to%20Obtain%20an%20Efficient%20Comprehensive%20and%20Accurate%20Best%20Possible%20Medication%20History%20(BPMH).pdf\">Read the <em>Top Ten Tips<\/em> PDF<\/a> to review the importance of medication reconciliation.<\/div>\r\nChecklist 43 outlines the steps for safe medication administration.\r\n<table style=\"border-color: #000000; width: 100%;\" border=\"1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0)\"><caption><a id=\"checklist42\"><\/a>Checklist 43: Safe Medication Administration<\/caption>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 75px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"4\">\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">Disclaimer:\u00a0Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.<\/h5>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 75px;\" colspan=\"4\">\r\n<h5>Safety considerations:<\/h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Dispense medication in a quiet area.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Avoid conversation with others.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Follow agency's no-interruption zone policy.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication preparation (see below).<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Check that the medication has not expired.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-6-hand-hygiene\/\">Perform hand hygiene<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Check room for <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-8-masks\/\">additional precautions<\/a>.\r\n<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Introduce yourself to patient.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth) AND check against MAR.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Check allergy band for any allergies, and ask patient about type and severity of reaction.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Complete necessary <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/2-5-focussed-respiratory-assessment\/\">focused assessments<\/a>, lab values, and\/or <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/vital-signs\/\">vital signs<\/a>, and document on MAR.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Provide patient education as necessary.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">If a patient questions or expresses concern regarding a medication, stop and do not administer.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Steps<\/h4>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">\u00a0Additional Information<\/h4>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">1.\u00a0Check MAR against doctor\u2019s orders.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">Check that MAR and doctor's orders are consistent.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6140\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-419.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6140 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-419-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Comparing physician orders and MAR\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Compare physician orders and MAR[\/caption]\r\n\r\nCompare MAR with patient wristband.\r\n\r\nNight staff usually complete and verify this check as well.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS\u00a0x 3 (this must be done with each individual medication):\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The right patient<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right medication (drug)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right dose<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right route<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right time<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right reason<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The right documentation<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nMedication calculation: D\/H x S = A\r\n\r\n(<strong>D<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">d<\/span>esired dosage\/<strong>H<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">h<\/span>ave available x <strong>S<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">s<\/span>tock = <strong>A<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">a<\/span>mount prepared)<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers\u00a0(e.g., name and date of birth).\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6143\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-430.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6143 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-430-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Compare MAR with patient name band\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Compare MAR with patient wristband[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.\r\n\r\nThe right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.\r\n\r\nThe right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient's current condition.\r\n\r\nThe right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6278\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17601.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6278 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17601-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Check the right patient, medication, dose, route, time, reason, documentation\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Check the right patient, medication, dose, route, time, reason, documentation[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.\r\n\r\nThe right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.\r\n\r\nNEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>When the medication is taken out of the drawer<\/li>\r\n \t<li>When the medication is being poured<\/li>\r\n \t<li>When the medication is being put away\/or at bedside<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6279\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17621.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17621-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Perform 7 checks 3 times before administering medication \" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Perform seven checks three times before administering medication[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThese checks are done before administering the medication to your patient.\r\n\r\nIf taking the drug to the bedside (e.g., eye drops),\u00a0do a third check at the bedside.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">4. Circle medication when poured.<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">Pour medication. Circle MAR to show that medication has been poured.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6277\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17561.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6277 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17561-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Circle medication once it has been poured\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Circle medication once it has been poured[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">5. Positioning:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Position patient appropriately for medication administration.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Ensure proper body mechanics for\u00a0health care provider.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Position patient safely and appropriately\u00a0once medication is administered.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">This ensures patient safety and comfort.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6280\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17631.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-6280 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17631-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Position patient appropriately for medication administration\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Position patient appropriately for medication administration[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">6. Post-medication safety check:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Complete post assessment and\/or vital signs (if applicable).<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Sign MAR; place in the appropriate chart.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-6-hand-hygiene\/\">Perform hand hygiene<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">This ensures patient safety.\r\n\r\nThis step prevents the transfer of microorganisms.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_5972\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"150\"]<a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-247.jpg\"><img class=\"wp-image-5972 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-247-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Hand hygiene with ABHR\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a> Hand hygiene with ABHR[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"4\">Data source:\u00a0Lilley, Harrington, Snyder, &amp; Swart, 2011; Lynn, 2011; Perry et al., 2014<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Critical Thinking Exercises<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>Discuss why you think medication reconciliation is important for patient safety.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>List five steps you can take to ensure safe medication administration practice.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<p>In the Institute of Medicine&#8217;s often-cited book <em>To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System <\/em>(Kohn, Corrigan, &amp; Donaldson, 2000), it is\u00a0estimated that approximately 1.5-million preventable adverse drug events (ADEs) occur annually. The Joint Commission (TJC) defines medication errors as any preventable event that may cause inappropriate medication use or jeopardize patient safety (TJC, 2012).<\/p>\n<p>Medication errors are the number-one error in health care (Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2013). Safe and accurate medication administration is an important and potentially challenging nursing responsibility. Medication administration requires good decision-making skills and clinical judgment, and the nurse is responsible for ensuring full understanding of medication administration and its implications for patient safety.<\/p>\n<p>Medication errors have a substantial impact on health care in Canada (Butt, 2010). When preparing and administering medication, and assessing patients after receiving medication, always follow agency policy to ensure safe practice. Review Table 6.1 for guidelines for safe medication administration.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 100%;\">\n<caption>Table 6.1 Guidelines for Safe Medication Administration<\/caption>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; text-align: left;\" colspan=\"4\">\n<h5>Safety Considerations:<\/h5>\n<ul>\n<li>Agency policy on medication administration and medication administration record (MAR) may vary. Always receive the required training on the use of the medication system for each agency to avoid preventable errors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<h4>Principle<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<h4>\u00a0Additional Information<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be vigilant when preparing medications.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid distractions. Some agencies have a<strong>\u00a0no-interruption zone (NIZ)<\/strong>, where health care providers can prepare medications without interruptions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Check for allergies.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always ask patient about allergies, types of reactions, and severity of reactions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use two patient identifiers at all times. Always follow agency policy for patient identification.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use at least two patient identifiers before administration <em>and<\/em> compare against the MAR.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Assessment comes before medication administration.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">All medications require an assessment (review of lab values, pain, respiratory assessment, cardiac assessment, etc.) prior to medication administration to ensure the patient is receiving the correct medication for the correct reason.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be diligent in all medication calculations.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Errors in medication calculations have contributed to dosage errors, especially when adjusting or titrating dosages.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid reliance on memory; use checklists and memory aids.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Slips in memory are caused by lack of attention, fatigue, distractions.\u00a0Mistakes are often referred to as attentional behaviours where lack of training or knowledge is the cause of the error. Slips account for most errors in heath care. If possible, follow\u00a0a standard list of steps for every patient.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Communicate with your patient before and after administration.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Provide information to patient about the medication before administering it. Answer questions regarding usage, dose, and special considerations. Give the patient an opportunity to ask questions. Include family members if appropriate.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Avoid workarounds.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">A\u00a0<strong>workaround\u00a0<\/strong>is a process that bypasses a procedure, policy, or problem in a system. For example, a nurse may &#8220;borrow&#8221; a medication from another patient while waiting for an order to be filled by the pharmacy. These workarounds fail to follow agency policy to ensure safe medication practices.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Ensure medication has not expired.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Medication may be inactive if expired.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always clarify an order or procedure that is unclear.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Always ask for help whenever you are uncertain or unclear about an order. Consult with the pharmacist, charge nurse, or other health care providers and be sure to resolve all questions before proceeding with medication administration.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Use available technology to administer medications.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Bar-code scanning (eMAR) has\u00a0decreased errors in administration by 51%, and computerized physician orders have decreased errors by 81%. Technology has the potential to help decrease errors. Use technology when administering medications but be aware of technology-induced errors.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Report all near misses, errors, and adverse reactions.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Reporting allows for analysis and identification of potential errors, which can lead to improvements and sharing of information for safer patient care.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">Be alert to error-prone situations and high-alert medications.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\"><strong>High-alert medications<\/strong> are those\u00a0that are most likely to cause significant harm, even when used as intended. The most common high-alert medications are\u00a0anticoagulants, narcotics and opiates, insulins, and sedatives. The types of harm most commonly associated with these medications include hypotension, delirium, bleeding, hypoglycemia, bradycardia, and lethargy.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">If a patient questions or expresses concern about\u00a0a medication,\u00a0stop and do not administer it.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"2\">If a patient questions a medication, stop and explore the patient&#8217;s concerns, review the physician&#8217;s order, and, if necessary, notify the practitioner in charge of the patient.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000;\" colspan=\"4\">Data source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2014; Canadian Patient Safety Institute, 2012; Debono et al., 2013; Institute for Healthcare Improvement, 2015; National Patient Safety Agency, 2009; National Priority Partnership, 2010; Prakash et al., 2014<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2>Technological Advances That Help Mitigate Medication Errors<\/h2>\n<p>Computerized physician order entry (CPOE) is a system that allows prescribers to electronically enter orders for medications, thus eliminating the need for written orders. CPOE\u00a0increases the accuracy and legibility of medication orders; the potential for the integration of clinical decision support; and the optimization of prescriber, nurse, and pharmacist time (Agrawal, 2009). Decision support software integrated into a CPOE system can allow for the automatic checking of drug allergies, dosage indications, baseline laboratory results, and potential drug interactions. When a prescriber enters an order through CPOE, the information about the order will then transmit\u00a0to the pharmacy and ultimately to the MAR.<\/p>\n<p>The use of electronic bar codes on medication labels and packaging has the potential to improve patient safety in a number of ways. A patient&#8217;s MAR is entered into the hospital&#8217;s information system\u00a0and encoded into the patient&#8217;s wristband, which is accessible to the nurse through a handheld device. When administering a medication, the nurse scans the\u00a0patient&#8217;s medical record number on the wristband, and the bar code on the drug. The computer processes the scanned information, charts it, and updates the patient&#8217;s MAR record appropriately (Poon et\u00a0al., 2010).<\/p>\n<p>Automated medication dispensing systems (AMDS)\u00a0provide electronic automated control of all medications, including narcotics. Each nurse accessing the system has a unique access code. The nurse will enter the patient&#8217;s name, the medication, the dosage, and the route of administration. The system will then open either the patient&#8217;s individual drawer or the narcotic drawer to dispense the specific medication. If the patient&#8217;s electronic health record is linked to the AMDS, the medication and the nurse who accessed the system will be linked to the patient&#8217;s electronic record.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.patientsafetyinstitute.ca\/en\/toolsResources\/Documents\/Interventions\/Medication%20Reconciliation\/Home\/Top%2010%20Practical%20Tips%20-%20How%20to%20Obtain%20an%20Efficient%20Comprehensive%20and%20Accurate%20Best%20Possible%20Medication%20History%20(BPMH).pdf\">Read the <em>Top Ten Tips<\/em> PDF<\/a> to review the importance of medication reconciliation.<\/div>\n<p>Checklist 43 outlines the steps for safe medication administration.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-color: #000000; width: 100%;\">\n<caption><a id=\"checklist42\"><\/a>Checklist 43: Safe Medication Administration<\/caption>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 75px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"4\">\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">Disclaimer:\u00a0Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill.<\/h5>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 75px;\" colspan=\"4\">\n<h5>Safety considerations:<\/h5>\n<ul>\n<li>Plan medication administration to avoid disruption:\n<ul>\n<li>Dispense medication in a quiet area.<\/li>\n<li>Avoid conversation with others.<\/li>\n<li>Follow agency&#8217;s no-interruption zone policy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Prepare medications for ONE patient at a time.<\/li>\n<li>Follow the SEVEN RIGHTS of medication preparation (see below).<\/li>\n<li>Check that the medication has not expired.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-6-hand-hygiene\/\">Perform hand hygiene<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Check room for <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-8-masks\/\">additional precautions<\/a>.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Introduce yourself to patient.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth) AND check against MAR.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Check allergy band for any allergies, and ask patient about type and severity of reaction.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Complete necessary <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/2-5-focussed-respiratory-assessment\/\">focused assessments<\/a>, lab values, and\/or <a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/vital-signs\/\">vital signs<\/a>, and document on MAR.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">Provide patient education as necessary.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 1.5;\">If a patient questions or expresses concern regarding a medication, stop and do not administer.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Steps<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">\u00a0Additional Information<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">1.\u00a0Check MAR against doctor\u2019s orders.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">Check that MAR and doctor&#8217;s orders are consistent.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_6140\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6140\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-419.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6140 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-419-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Comparing physician orders and MAR\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6140\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Compare physician orders and MAR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Compare MAR with patient wristband.<\/p>\n<p>Night staff usually complete and verify this check as well.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">2. Perform the SEVEN RIGHTS\u00a0x 3 (this must be done with each individual medication):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The right patient<\/li>\n<li>The right medication (drug)<\/li>\n<li>The right dose<\/li>\n<li>The right route<\/li>\n<li>The right time<\/li>\n<li>The right reason<\/li>\n<li>The right documentation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Medication calculation: D\/H x S = A<\/p>\n<p>(<strong>D<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">d<\/span>esired dosage\/<strong>H<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">h<\/span>ave available x <strong>S<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">s<\/span>tock = <strong>A<\/strong> or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">a<\/span>mount prepared)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">The right patient: check that you have the correct patient using two patient identifiers\u00a0(e.g., name and date of birth).<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_6143\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6143\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-430.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6143 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-430-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Compare MAR with patient name band\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6143\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Compare MAR with patient wristband<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The right medication (drug): check that you have the correct medication and that it is appropriate for the patient in the current context.<\/p>\n<p>The right dose: check that the dose makes sense for the age, size, and condition of the patient. Different dosages may be indicated for different conditions.<\/p>\n<p>The right route: check that the route is appropriate for the patient&#8217;s current condition.<\/p>\n<p>The right time: adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_6278\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6278\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17601.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6278 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17601-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Check the right patient, medication, dose, route, time, reason, documentation\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6278\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Check the right patient, medication, dose, route, time, reason, documentation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The right reason: check that the patient is receiving the medication for the appropriate reason.<\/p>\n<p>The right documentation: always verify any unclear or inaccurate documentation prior to administering medications.<\/p>\n<p>NEVER document that you have given a medication until you have actually administered it.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">3. The label on the medication must be checked for name, dose, and route, and compared with the MAR at three different times:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>When the medication is taken out of the drawer<\/li>\n<li>When the medication is being poured<\/li>\n<li>When the medication is being put away\/or at bedside<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_6279\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6279\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17621.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17621-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Perform 7 checks 3 times before administering medication\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6279\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Perform seven checks three times before administering medication<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>These checks are done before administering the medication to your patient.<\/p>\n<p>If taking the drug to the bedside (e.g., eye drops),\u00a0do a third check at the bedside.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">4. Circle medication when poured.<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">Pour medication. Circle MAR to show that medication has been poured.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_6277\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6277\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17561.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6277 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17561-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Circle medication once it has been poured\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6277\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Circle medication once it has been poured<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">5. Positioning:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Position patient appropriately for medication administration.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure proper body mechanics for\u00a0health care provider.<\/li>\n<li>Position patient safely and appropriately\u00a0once medication is administered.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">This ensures patient safety and comfort.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_6280\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6280\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17631.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-6280 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/DSC_17631-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Position patient appropriately for medication administration\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-6280\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Position patient appropriately for medication administration<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">6. Post-medication safety check:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Complete post assessment and\/or vital signs (if applicable).<\/li>\n<li>Sign MAR; place in the appropriate chart.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/clinicalskills\/chapter\/1-6-hand-hygiene\/\">Perform hand hygiene<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"2\">This ensures patient safety.<\/p>\n<p>This step prevents the transfer of microorganisms.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_5972\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5972\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-247.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-5972 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/82\/2015\/09\/Book-pictures-2015-247-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Hand hygiene with ABHR\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-5972\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hand hygiene with ABHR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-color: #000000;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000000; width: 250px;\" colspan=\"4\">Data source:\u00a0Lilley, Harrington, Snyder, &amp; Swart, 2011; Lynn, 2011; Perry et al., 2014<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Critical Thinking Exercises<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<ol>\n<li>Discuss why you think medication reconciliation is important for patient safety.<\/li>\n<li>List five steps you can take to ensure safe medication administration practice.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"menu_order":2,"template":"","meta":{"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[],"class_list":["post-2865","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"part":2860,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/2865","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/2865\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10209,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/2865\/revisions\/10209"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/2860"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/2865\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2865"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=2865"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=2865"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/clinicalskills\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=2865"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}