It is unlikely that all errors can be avoided in all settings but being prepared can mean that the error has less serious consequences for the person using the medication and for health care staff.
Check the Person First
At first assess for immediate harm. Look for signs and symptoms of the error and stay with the individual until further assistance arrives. Try to keep an eye on them until you get more help.
Get Clinical Advice Quickly
Phone for clinical advice: 111, the individual’s GP, or send for an ambulance depending on the situation and the severity of the error. Provide full information about the incorrect medication, the quantity given, and the time it was administered. The clinical advisor will then inform you if any further action is required.
Document Everything Accurately
Record what has happened. Use the medication error and safe handling of medicines documentation. Make sure all relevant information is included, i.e. the name of the medicine(s), dose(s), time(s) given and any observations made or effects reported.
Report Through the Right Channels
Report through your organisation’s incident reporting procedure and inform a senior colleague as soon as possible. The national reporting of patient safety incidents procedure should also be reported through as applicable for incidents that have affected the safety of the person.
Support Your Colleagues
Remember the error has affected others too. Make time to debrief with them as soon as possible after the event.
Review and Learn
Identify the cause of the error and whether there are any processes that need to change.
For Safe handling of medication, see tidaltraining.co.uk/health-and-social-care-courses/safe-handling-of-medication-training/.
A measured response to errors will ensure all are protected and that no further harm is caused in order to ensure error has not been caused in order to repeat error.
