1. Safe Prescribing And Medication Error

Question 1

What do you need to confirm about the drug before writing a prescription?

Answer 1

• name of the drug
• dose of drug
• strength of drug
• frequency
• duration
• adherence
• allergies - remember to document allergy status
• indication

Question 2

What are the legal requirements when writing a prescription?

Answer 2

• written in indelible ink
• confirm patients name, address and DOB
• must be signed and dated by me
• with my name and practice address

There may be additional requirements for controlled drugs

Question 3

Name 5 good practice requirements when prescribing a drug?

Answer 3

• use an approved drug name (not brand name) and make it legible and dont use abbreviations
• indicate route of administration e.g. sublingual etc
• dose, strength (put units in full)
• frequency
• any special or additional instructions

Question 4

How do you amend a prescription (Rx)?

Answer 4

Cross out the incorrect information and write the correct amendment. Then sign your amendment.

Question 5

What is the yellow card scheme?

Answer 5

• helps the MHRA regulate the safety of all healthcare products in the UK to ensure patient safety
• the scheme collects information on ADRs

Question 6

What should be reported?

Answer 6

• black triangle drugs and unlicensed herbal preparations: report all suspected reactions however trivial the reaction
• established products and vaccines: report all suspected reactions even if the reaction is well known and recognised
• all paediatric reactions

Question 7

What is a black triangle drug?

Answer 7

A drug which is being intensively monitored. Generally:

• newly released
• changed indications
• changed formulation
• combination product

Question 8

What is a serious reaction?

Answer 8

• any reaction which results in or prolongs hospitalisation

- serious reactions also include those that are fatal, life threatening, disabling or incapacitating