S1) Safe Prescribing and Medication Errors Flashcards
1
Q
What are the three types of problems that lead to medication errors?
A
- Patient-related problems
- Pharmaceutical problems
- Doctor-related problems
2
Q
Describe two patient-related problems leading to poor prescribing
A
- Increasing population i.e. patient numbers
- More elderly patients with co-morbidities (renal/hepatic), multiple drugs and increased risk of side effects
3
Q
Describe three pharmaceutical problems leading to poor prescribing
A
- New drug developments
- Some side effects only occur during post-marketing surveillance
- Blind adherence to guidelines (contraindications / serious interactions)
4
Q
Describe four doctor-related problems leading to poor prescribing
A
- Increased specialisation
- Increased used of medicines generally
- Increased complexity of medical care
- Exhaustion
5
Q
In three steps, explain how compound errors can occur when prescribing on-call
A
Errors more likely to occur:
⇒ Rarely know patient
⇒ Prescribe new unfamiliar drugs
⇒ Prescribe old drugs in absence of results
6
Q
Before writing a prescription, what 9 things should one confirm?
A
- Name of drug(s)
- Dose
- Strength
- Frequency
- Duration of treatment
- Allergies/adverse effects
- Indication
- Adherence
- GMC Guidance
Mnemonic: Now Daniel Says Feathery Ducks Are as Interesting As Goats
7
Q
Identify the seven features of good practice requirements for prescribing drugs
A
- Approved drug name
- Route of administration
- Dose
- Strength
- Units in full
- Frequency
- Special (additional) instructions
8
Q
What is a serious reaction?
A
- A serious reaction is any reaction which results in/prolongs hospitalisation
- They can be fatal, life-threatening, disabling or incapacitating
