Question

1) You are a prescriber, discuss three things you would do to ensure medication safety (list and explain). (100 words or less)

Answer 1

The prescriber must ensure medication safety by:

Basics of medication safety:

• Check the medication for name, dosage, frequency, route and make sure its prescription is complete
• Check for patient allergy or any contraindications to the medicine.
• Educate the patient on the medications and advise to inform if side effects occur.

Reduce distractions:

• Avoid distractions like phone calls or other discussions while prescribing.
• Keep an eye on forgetfulness. In case the name or dose of the drug is in doubt, always double check with reliable source before prescribing.
• Avoid errors of prescription

Additional safety:

• Avoid high stress situations in work, which can lead to medication errors. Modify work schedules to minimize stress.
• Have a clear knowledge and update on antidotes, reversal agents etc.

Make sure where they are stored and how to administer them in emergency situations.

• Double check the spellings of the medication prescribed .
• The medications of high alert has to be double checked before prescribing and explain how to follow , do s and don’t s to the patient while taking such medicines.
• Provide written instructions to the patient on regimen of the drug.