Medication errors happen more often than they should. They happen for a variety of reasons and ought to be investigated more. These errors can be caused by human error, process error or a combination of both. The consequences of discrepancies can be on a spectrum of outcomes with patient demise being the worst possible outcome. When it comes to disciplinary action of nurses for these mistakes, Rogers et al., (2017) states that pharmacists should collaborate with other healthcare professionals to put systems in place whose purpose is to prevent medication errors while promoting a “just culture.” A just culture should foster an environment of openness and fairness to facilitate the honest reporting of errors (Rogers et al., 2017). Furthermore, it is more concerned with preventative measures than punitive and expectations for handling errors should be clearly presented so employees know what to expect should these situations arise.

There are 3 behavior choices that include human error, at-risk behavior, and reckless behavior. This model helps to determine the course of action based on the actions exhibited. Personally, I believe accountability should be taken for all medication errors and the consequences should be evaluated based on the just culture behavior choices shown. When nurses make medication errors, consequences can include verbal or written disciplinary action, correspondence by the state board of nursing, and in extreme cases civil or criminal charges (Anderson & Townsend, 2010). Depending on the circumstances surrounding the event, the actions taken by the nurse, and the outcomes of the patient, the severity of disciplinary action is determined.

References

Anderson, P. & Townsend, T. (2010). Medication errors: Best Practices. My America Nurse. Medication errors: Best Practices

Rogers, E., Griffin, E., Carnie, W., Melucci, J., Weber, R. (2017). A Just Culture Approach to Managing Medication Errors. Hosp Pharm. A Just Culture Approach to Managing Medication Errors – PMC