NURSING STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING PATIENT SAFETY DURING MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Medication administration is a critical aspect of nursing care, impacting patient safety and healthcare outcomes significantly. Despite advancements in protocols and technologies, medication errors continue to pose significant challenges, with consequences ranging from mild to severe. This review examines various nursing strategies aimed at enhancing safety during medication administration, emphasizing the roles of technology, continuous education, and institutional policies. Technological tools, such as electronic health records (EHRs), automated dispensing systems (ADS), and computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems, have shown substantial efficacy in reducing medication errors. These technologies help automate the medication administration process, ensuring accurate dosing and timing while providing healthcare providers with access to comprehensive patient information. However, the reliance on technology must be balanced with the critical observational skills of nursing staff, ensuring that technology supports rather than replaces professional judgment. Continuing education is crucial for nursing staff to remain current with the latest developments in pharmacology and patient care practices. Regular training and professional development initiatives are necessary to enhance nurses' ability to manage medication safely. These educational efforts focus on improving critical thinking and decision-making skills, which are essential for identifying and mitigating potential safety risks associated with medication administration. Institutional policies that standardize medication administration practices play a pivotal role in promoting patient safety. These policies establish clear guidelines and protocols that reduce variability and human error. Additionally, fostering a safety culture within healthcare institutions encourages the reporting of errors and near misses, which is vital for continuous improvement. Overall, the integration of technology, ongoing education, and robust institutional policies are fundamental to enhancing medication safety. This review highlights the need for a holistic approach that combines these elements to effectively minimize medication errors and improve patient care outcomes. Future research should focus on evaluating the impact of these strategies in diverse healthcare settings to identify best practices and areas for further improvement