Barriers and facilitators in reporting medication errors among nurses in a long-term facility in Malta

Abstract

Background: Medication errors are preventable occurrences arising from inappropriate medication utilization, causing harm to patients. According to Bayazidi et al. (2012), a mistake can be attributed to human weakness and a poor healthcare system model that permits errors. A study by Zakharov et al. (2012) showed that the high-risk categories of medication error victims are elderly persons. Reporting medication errors is critical for prevention and reducing the likelihood of future occurrences. Study Aim: The study aims to explore the barriers and facilitators in reporting medication errors among nurses in a Long-Term Care Facility in Malta. The objectives of the study are to explore: The barriers which stop nurses from reporting medication errors. What facilitates or increases the chances of reporting medication errors. What are the reporting rates of medication error in a long-term care facility? Design and Participants: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used for this study. Participants were recruited from a long-term care facility which employs 300 Registered Nurses. The data was collected from all the registered nurses via a pre-tested questionnaire. Results: Calculating drug doses and nurses' knowledge of medications were primary contributing factors to medical errors. Computerised physician order entry (CPOE), automated medication dispensing, and smart infusion pumps are generally perceived as helpful or very helpful by the majority of nurses. Conclusion and Implications: This study indicates various shortages identified within the local setting including lack of feedback and awareness of the system. Therefore, it is suggested that medication error reporting should be given a higher profile on the organization’s agenda in the long-term care facility for the elderly.