Assignment task:
One problem in nursing that I have observed is medication errors. Medication errors can occur at various stages, including prescribing, transcribing, dispensing, administering, and monitoring medications. These errors can lead to adverse drug events, patient harm, prolonged hospital stays, and even fatalities (Suclupe et al., 2020). Addressing this problem through nursing research can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Nursing research can investigate the underlying causes and contributing factors of medication errors. Identifying the root causes, such as communication breakdown, lack of standardized processes, or inadequate education, interventions can be developed to prevent errors from occurring. Research can also explore the effectiveness of strategies such as computerized physician order entry systems, barcode scanning technology, medication reconciliation protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance medication safety (Abdulmutalib & Safwat, 2020). Implementing evidence-based interventions based on nursing research findings can improve patient outcomes. For example, research studies have shown that barcode scanning technology can reduce medication administration errors by ensuring the right medication is given to the right patient at the right time. Similarly, interdisciplinary collaboration and effective communication among healthcare providers can help prevent errors related to medication prescribing and administration.
Moreover, nursing research can evaluate the impact of educational interventions on healthcare professionals' knowledge and competence in medication management. By identifying the most effective educational strategies, such as simulation-based training or medication safety workshops, nurses can be better equipped to prevent medication errors (Suclupe et al., 2020). Overall, addressing the problem of medication errors through nursing research is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Research provides a systematic approach to identify the causes of errors, develop and evaluate interventions, and enhance nurses' knowledge and skills. Implementing evidence-based practices, healthcare organizations can create a culture of safety, reduce medication errors, and ultimately improve patient care and well-being.