Abstract
Background: Prescribing errors (PEs) are
an endemic
problem in healthcare with prevalence
estimated at up
to 50%. Error causation is complex with
lack of PE
feedback considered a contributing latent
condition.
The aims of this research are to explore
the views of
Pharmacists towards PE feedback and the
impact of
feedback on PE rates and Prescribers.
Summary of Work: Prospective prescribing
audits
were completed at the beginning and end
of a three
month prescriber rotational period for
control and
intervention wards. Prescribers received
feedback on
PEs in-between audit periods. PE data
were analysed
using an independent t-test. 24
Pharmacists were
recruited into one of four focus groups.
Twenty
prescribers who had received feedback
were
interviewed individually. Interviews were
transcribed
and analysed using a thematic framework
approach.
Summary of Results: Mean PE rates were
significantly
lower in the intervention group following
feedback
(mean difference 19.7%, p<0.05, d=0.7).
Pharmacists
3 / 7
recognised that feedback on PEs was
essential to learn
from mistakes and reduce PEs. However,
delivery of
feedback appeared to be inconsistent and
mainly
directive with communication anxieties
with
prescribers also reported. Prescribers
welcomed and
valued feedback, advocating its role in
facilitating
reflection and supporting their
development.
Pharmacists were considered credible
facilitators of
feedback.
Discussion: The work has involved a
change in
hospital practice and in some cases a
change of
culture, but it seems these changes are
worthwhile. If
this is to be taken further then
pharmacists may need
to have more training in giving feedback
and more
time allowed for giving and receiving
feedback.
Conclusion: Early results are promising
with positive
impacts on PE rates and prescribers
themselves.
Further work is necessary to determine
reproducibility, sustainability and the
impact of
feedback on specific error types and
Pharmacists who
deliver the structured feedback.
Take Home Messages: Allowing
pharmacists to give
feedback to prescribers can reduce
prescribing error rates.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Not Known |
| Publication status | Accepted/In press - 1 May 2016 |
| Event | Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE) Conference - Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Edinburgh, United Kingdom Duration: 5 Sept 2004 → 8 Sept 2004 |
Conference
| Conference | Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE) Conference |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
| City | Edinburgh |
| Period | 5/09/04 → 8/09/04 |