A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Medication Error and Safe Medication Administration Practice Among Staff Nurses Working in Selected Hospitals of Aurangabad

Abstract

Abstract\r\nBackground: Medication administration is one of the most important responsibilities of nurses in hospital settings. Medication errors are preventable events that may lead to inappropriate medication use and patient harm. Since nurses are directly involved in medication administration, their knowledge and practice play a vital role in preventing medication errors and ensuring patient safety.\r\nAim: The present study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding medication error and safe medication administration practice among staff nurses working in selected hospitals of Aurangabad.\r\nMethods: A descriptive survey research design was adopted. A total of 196 staff nurses working in selected hospitals were selected by using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Data were collected by using a self-structured knowledge questionnaire on prevention of medication error and an observational checklist for safe medication administration practice. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee and informed consent was taken from the participants. The data were analysed by using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and mean percentage.\r\nResults: Out of 196 staff nurses, 18 were males and 178 were females. The study revealed that majority of staff nurses, 119 (61%), had good knowledge regarding prevention of medication error, while 77 (39.28%) had average knowledge. No staff nurse had poor knowledge. Regarding safe medication administration practice, majority of staff nurses, 105 (53.57%), had poor practice, whereas 91 (46.42%) had good practice.\r\nConclusion: The study concluded that majority of staff nurses had good knowledge regarding prevention of medication error; however, their safe medication administration practice was poor. This indicates a gap between knowledge and actual clinical practice. Regular training, supervision, medication safety audits and reinforcement of safe medication administration protocols are needed to improve nursing practice and patient safety.\r\n