To reduce adverse drug events in older patients, which measure targets preparation errors?

To reduce adverse drug events in older patients, which measure targets preparation errors?

• A. Conduct a monthly quality improvement study
• B. Monitor each nurse's ability to detect preparation errors
• C. Discuss the importance of not missing medication doses
• D. Review pharmacy documentation regarding drug–drug interactions

Answer: (B)

To cut adverse drug events related to preparation errors, the most effective approach is to assess and strengthen the frontline ability to catch mistakes during medication preparation. Monitoring each nurse’s ability to detect preparation errors directly targets the point where errors are introduced and can be corrected before administration. This focused measure supports training, bedside checks, and system safeguards (like double-checks or bar-code verification) that prevent incorrect drugs, doses, or labeling from reaching the patient. The other options are less directly tied to preparation mistakes. A monthly quality improvement study is broad and may not specifically address preparation practices; stressing not missing doses targets timing rather than the accuracy of preparation; and reviewing pharmacy documentation about drug–drug interactions addresses prescribing or dispensing safety, not the preparation process itself.

To cut adverse drug events related to preparation errors, the most effective approach is to assess and strengthen the frontline ability to catch mistakes during medication preparation. Monitoring each nurse’s ability to detect preparation errors directly targets the point where errors are introduced and can be corrected before administration. This focused measure supports training, bedside checks, and system safeguards (like double-checks or bar-code verification) that prevent incorrect drugs, doses, or labeling from reaching the patient.

The other options are less directly tied to preparation mistakes. A monthly quality improvement study is broad and may not specifically address preparation practices; stressing not missing doses targets timing rather than the accuracy of preparation; and reviewing pharmacy documentation about drug–drug interactions addresses prescribing or dispensing safety, not the preparation process itself.