Perception of the Causes, Management, and Preventive Measures on Medication Error Among Anesthetist-Trainees

Abstract

Background: Medication error (ME) occurs from the wrong use of medications and constitutes a significant burden to society. The level of perception of health personnel towards MEs usually affects their attitudes and actions.

Objectives: This study sought to describe the perception of anaesthetist trainees on the causes, management and preventive measures toward ME.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among anaesthetist trainees in the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS (version 22). A frequency, percentage table and bar charts were used to present the results.

Results: Majority (97.7%) of anaesthetist trainees were registrars and were mostly 1-5 years into their practice (64%). More than two-thirds (69.8%) of the anaesthetist-trainees strongly believed in ME occurrence, and 72.1% have been involved in MEs. The main reported perceived cause of ME was wrong calculation in 96.5% of the participants. Self-reporting was reported in 88.4% of the participants as the major perceived way to manage MEs.

Conclusion: A high incidence of ME was reported amongst the anaesthestist trainees. Engaging in self-reporting and introducing barcoding cum the use of typed prescriptions were the main perceived management and preventive methods thought to curb the occurrence of ME.