Medication errors in care homes
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Updated: May 30, 2026

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
David Alldred1, Claire Standage
1School of Healthcare, University of Leeds.
Background:
The Care Homes' Use of Medicines Study (Alldred et al, 2009) found medication administration errors occur during drug rounds in care homes.
Aim:
This study aimed to establish if there were differences in administration error rates: between tablets and capsules and other formulations; and between tablets and capsules dispensed in monitored dosage systems and those given out in the manufacturer's original packaging.
Method:
Clinical pharmacists observed two drug rounds of care home residents in 55 care homes. They compared the error rates of different formulations and monitored dosage systems.
Results:
Formulations that are not tablets and capsules, for example inhaled therapy, are particularly at risk of being administered incorrectly.
Conclusion:
Care home staff need greater support and training to administer formulations that are not tablets or capsules.
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