A process for supporting children's nurses after medication errors

Preventable medication-related incidents are a reality during an inpatient stay. While most incidents are intercepted, some reach the patient and can result in varying degrees of harm. This article reports on a quality improvement project aimed at improving the process of supporting nurses after medication-related incidents have occurred on a paediatric intensive care unit. The process provides a robust system for all involved and recognises the importance of patient safety. It has been well received by the managers using it and the nurses who were supported through the process. It is now embedded in practice and is perceived by staff to be fair and proportionate.