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Pharmacist's attitudes towards dispensing errors: their causes and prevention.
G M Peterson1, M S Wu, J K Bergin
1Tasmanian School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia. G.Peterson@utas.edu.au
Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
|May 13, 1999
Summary
Pharmacists perceive an increasing risk of dispensing errors due to high workloads and fatigue. They advocate for proactive measures and a zero-error tolerance to improve patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Practice
- Medication Safety
- Healthcare Quality
Background:
- Dispensing errors pose a significant risk to patient safety.
- Understanding pharmacists' perspectives is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess pharmacists' attitudes regarding dispensing errors.
- To identify factors contributing to and mitigating dispensing errors.
- To explore opinions on maximum dispensing loads and regulatory guidelines.
Main Methods:
- A postal survey was conducted among Tasmanian-registered pharmacists in Australia.
- The anonymous questionnaire gathered data on perceived error trends, contributing factors, risk reduction strategies, and safe dispensing loads.
Main Results:
- 82% of pharmacists believe the risk of dispensing errors is increasing.
- Key contributing factors include high prescription volumes, pharmacist fatigue, and interruptions.
- 72% reported awareness of undetected dispensing errors in the past six months.
- A median of 150 prescription items per 9-hour day was considered safe, with 58% supporting regulatory dispensing load guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Dispensing errors are prevalent and often unreported.
- High workloads and pharmacist fatigue are significant contributors.
- The profession must adopt a proactive approach with a zero-error tolerance standard.