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Published on: September 20, 2019
Errors during the preparation of drug infusions: a randomized controlled trial
R M Adapa1, V Mani, L J Murray
1Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
British Journal of Anaesthesia
|August 2, 2012
Summary
Preparing drug infusions using pre-filled syringes significantly reduces medication errors and treatment delays in critical care. This method improves patient safety compared to bedside preparation from ampoules.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Bedside preparation of drug infusions can lead to dose errors and treatment delays.
- Comparison between bedside preparation and pre-filled syringes for drug infusions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency and extent of medication errors and treatment delays.
- To evaluate the impact of pre-filled syringes versus bedside preparation on infusion accuracy and timeliness.
Main Methods:
- Randomized, blinded, controlled study with 48 critical care nurses in a simulated environment.
- Nurses managed a simulated septic shock patient, preparing vasopressor infusions from ampoules or using pre-filled syringes.
- Infusion start times and drug concentrations were measured and compared to pharmacy/industry standards.
Main Results:
- Pre-filled syringes reduced infusion start time by a mean of 106 seconds (P<0.0001).
- Medication errors were 17 times less likely with pre-filled syringes.
- Infusions prepared by pharmacy and industry had significantly higher concentrations of norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Conclusions:
- Pre-filled syringes prepared by pharmacists or pharmaceutical companies can decrease medication errors and treatment delays, enhancing patient safety.
- Implementation of pre-filled syringes may have significant financial implications for healthcare systems.
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