Medication Order Errors at Hospital Admission Among Children With Medical Complexity

Objectives We sought to characterize the nature and prevalence of medication order errors (MOEs) occurring at hospital admission for children with medical complexity (CMC), as well as identify the demographic and clinical risk factors for CMC experiencing MOEs. Methods Prospective cohort study of 1233 hospitalizations for CMC from November 1, 2015, to October 31, 2016, at 2 children’s hospitals. Medication order errors at admission were identified prospectively by nurse practitioners and a pharmacist through direct patient care. The primary outcome was presence of at least one MOE at hospital admission. Statistical methods used included χ2 test, Fisher exact tests, and generalized linear mixed models. Results Overall, 6.1% (n = 75) of hospitalizations had ≥1 MOE occurring at admission, representing 112 total identified MOEs. The most common MOEs were incorrect dose (41.1%) and omitted medication (34.8%). Baclofen and clobazam were the medications most commonly associated with MOEs. In bivariable analyses, MOEs at admission varied significantly by age, assistance with medical technology, and numbers of complex chronic conditions and medications (P
Source: Journal of Patient Safety - Category: Health Management Tags: Original Studies Source Type: research