MEDICATION SAFETY IN HOSPITAL

Abstract

Medication safety in hospitals is a critical component of patient care, with medication errors being a leading cause of preventable harm in healthcare settings. This study explores key factors affecting medication safety, including prescribing, dispensing, administration, and monitoring processes, with a focus on understanding common errors, underlying causes, and effective interventions to reduce risks. Contributing factors to medication errors range from human factors—such as fatigue, inadequate training, and communication breakdowns—to system-level issues like workflow inefficiencies, lack of electronic health records integration, and insufficient error-reporting mechanisms. Interventions such as computerized provider order entry (CPOE) systems, barcode medication administration (BCMA), clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and staff education programs have shown promise in reducing medication errors. However, barriers to implementation, including resistance to change, technology costs, and the need for ongoing training, present challenges. This study emphasizes the importance of a culture of safety, regular training, and robust reporting systems to ensure continuous improvement in medication safety. By adopting a multi-faceted, proactive approach, hospitals can enhance patient safety, improve clinical outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs associated with medication-related adverse events.