Work

Investigating pediatric nurses’ perceptions of factors contributing to MAEs at Yendi hospital, Ghana

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Medication administration errors (MAEs) are a critical concern in pediatric healthcare, contributing to adverse drug events (ADEs) and negatively impacting patient health. OBJECTIVES: This study explores pediatric nurses' perceptions of factors contributing to MAEs at Yendi Municipal Hospital to develop interventions enhancing patient safety. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 143 nurses at Yendi Municipal Hospital using structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS 26.0 and Excel 2016. Bivariate analysis examined relationships between socio-demographic characteristics and MAEs. RESULTS: Contributing factors to MAEs included inadequate training (91.6%), misunderstanding medical abbreviations (88.8%), poor supervision (92.3%), eagerness to sign out shifts (70.6%), improper handover (88.8%), inadequate staff (77.6%), dosage miscalculations (83.9%), and illegible handwriting (81.8%). Significant associations were found between MAEs and the type of unit/ward (X²=6.25, p = 0.012) and educational level (Fisher Exact test = 4.20, p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: Inadequate training, poor supervision, and communication issues are major contributors to MAEs in pediatric settings. Targeted interventions can significantly improve patient safety and care quality.

Source: BMC Pediatrics

DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-05269-x

Authors: Ruth Nimota Nukpezah, Nathaniel Awenlesakba Anyaba, Wahab Osman

Institution: University for Development Studies

Language: English

Topic: Patient Safety and Medication Errors

Subfield: Emergency Medical Services

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,890