A virtual centralized cytotoxic preparation unit simulation to evaluate the pharmacy staff knowledge

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Patient Safety
• Medication Errors

Background:

• Human error is a significant factor in medication errors within drug preparation units.
• Centralized cytotoxic drug preparation units require stringent protocols to mitigate risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess pharmacy staff knowledge and identify potential errors in a simulated cytotoxic preparation unit.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of error simulation in highlighting safety concerns.

Main Methods:

• A 10m² room simulated a centralized chemotherapy unit with preparation, isolator, and dispensing areas.
• 14 expert-selected error scenarios were integrated into the simulation.
• Participant responses were analyzed by independent experts using statistical software.

Main Results:

• The overall correct response rate was 58% ± 19%.
• Critical errors occurred in scenarios involving drug batch verification (40%), sterilization (15%), expiry dates (45%), dosage limits (25%), and labeling (30%).
• Staff not dedicated to chemotherapy preparation had a lower correct response rate (45% ± 25%).

Conclusions:

• The study underscores the necessity of comprehensive training programs for pharmacy staff involved in chemotherapy preparation.
• Training is vital for sensitizing personnel to risks and preventing medication errors.
• Simulation workshops can effectively identify knowledge gaps and improve safety practices.