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Medication errors
We can do much more than we do with barcoding
From Mr A. Purchase
In reference to the meeting report (PDF 70K) entitled “Medication errors:
what can we do?” (PJ, 18 October, p557), the answer is “much
more than we are”.
While mnemonics, guidelines and booklets may provide some short-term
aid to the problem of medication errors, much more needs to be done to
eradicate this growing problem in the long term. Labelling and identification
systems are usually the root cause of any mistakes made by tired staff.
Such errors can be dramatically reduced by the implementation of simple
standardised barcoding systems, used in other sectors for many years.
As well as streamlining procurement and driving down administration costs,
standardised barcoding allows products, and even dosages, to be uniquely
identified. Once such labelling has been implemented, simple hand-held
scanning devices can automatically highlight any problems, completely
removing any chance of human error.
Studies in the United States, where standardised barcoding has been made
mandatory by the Food and Drug Administration, show over a 70 per cent
reduction in error rates. It is time for the humble barcode to play a
major role in improving pharmacy standards in the United Kingdom.
Alaster Purchase
Healthcare Programme Manager,
e.centre, London
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* PDF files on PJ Online require Acrobat
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