Medication Administration Error Perceptions Among Critical Care Nurses: A Cross-Sectional, Descriptive Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Quality

Background:

• Medication administration errors (MAEs) are a significant concern in critical care settings.
• Understanding nurses' perceptions is crucial for developing effective error reduction strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perceptions of Jordanian critical care nurses regarding medication administration errors.
• To identify factors contributing to MAEs and underreporting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with 340 Jordanian critical care nurses.
• Data were collected using a 65-item self-administered questionnaire between July and August 2022.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported negative perceptions of MAEs, with similar medication packaging and appearance cited as primary causes.
• Fear of blame for errors contributes to underreporting, with 73.5% believing this is a major reason.
• High levels of MAEs (41%-70%) were reported for both IV and non-IV medications.

Conclusions:

• Interventions targeting MAEs are essential for critical care nurses to improve patient outcomes and nurse well-being.
• Addressing systemic causes and reducing blame culture can enhance reporting and patient safety.