Aplicabilidad de la herramienta “Prácticas seguras en pacientes con medicamentos de uso crónico” en el ámbito sociosanitario / Applicability of the tool “Safe practices in patients with chronic medicines” in social healthcare

Objetivo: Describir la aplicabilidad de la herramienta “Prácticas seguras en pacientes con medicamentos de uso crónico” en el ámbito de la atención sociosanitaria. Métodos: Estudio observacional transversal (junio 2018) de pacientes institucionalizados en residencia de pacientes asistidos, cuya atención sociosanitaria se realiza desde el Servicio de Farmacia de un hospital de primer nivel. Se aplicaron 18 prácticas seguras a cada tratamiento. Resultados: 153 pacientes incluidos, 69,3% mujeres, mediana edad 83 años (51-101), mediana medicamentos prescritos 12 (1-28). No fueron de aplicación a nuestra población 4 criterios de 18: PG10 (bifosfonatos), PO2 (fentanilo liberación rápida), PG11 (teriparatida por un tiempo superior a 2 años) y PG03 (buprenorfina como deshabituación en pacientes a tratamiento con otros opioides). 14 criterios de 18 detectan prescripciones relacionadas con los criterios de seguridad (monitorizar) y 8 de 18 criterios detectan prescripciones de riesgo en la población, siguiendo la siguiente distribución: 3 PG2 (AAS dosis >150 mg), 2 PG5 (AINE+antitrombótico), 2 PG6 (Triple Whammy), 3 PG7 (2 SRRA), 4 PG8 (2 o más anticolinérgicos), 1 PG9.1 (R/G/D+ anticolinérgicos), 2 PG9.2 (memantina+anticolinérgicos), 1 PO1 (opioide menor+mayor).Conclusiones: La utilización de esta herramienta garantiza la continuidad asistencial de los pacientes, constituye un punto de partida para el desarrollo de un programa de atención farmacéutica sociosanitaria y fomenta la colaboración entre los diferentes niveles asistenciales. A la vista de los resultados, existe una oportunidad de mejora a la hora de rediseñar estos criterios para ser aplicados a esta población institucionalizada.(AU)

Objetive: To describe the applicability of the tool “Safe practices in patients with chronic medicines” in social healthcare.Method: Cross-sectional observational study (June 2018) that included all patients admitted to a care home, whose social healthcare is provided by the Pharmacy Service at a top-tier hospital. Results: The study included 153 patients, 69.3% of whom were female. The average age was 38 (51-101) years. The mean medicines prescribed were 12 (1-28). A total of 4 criteria out of 18 did not apply to our study population: PG10 (biphosphonates), PO2 (rapid release fentanyl), PG11 (teriparatide for a period greater than 2 years) and PG03 (buprenorphine as detoxification in patients treated with other opioids). 14 criteria out of 18 detect treatments related to safety criteria (monitor) and 8 of 18 criteria detect high-risk prescriptions in the population according to the following distribution: 3 PG2 (AAS dose >150 mg), 2 PG5 (NSAID + antithrombotic), 2 PG6 (Triple Whammy), 3 PG7 (2 SSRI), PG8 (2 or more anticholinergics), 1 PG9.1 (R/G/D+anticholinergics), 2 PG9.2 (memantine+anticholinergics), 1 PO1 (strong+weak opioids). Conclusions: The use of this tool guarantees the continuity of care of patients, constitutes a starting point for the development of a pharmaceutical care programme in care homes. and encourages collaboration between the different levels of care. In view of the results, there is an opportunity for improvement when it comes to redesigning these criteria to be applied to this institutionalized population.(AU)

Premezclados como alternativa para el uso seguro de medicamentos intravenosos en escenarios de atención en salud / Premixed products, an alternative for safe intravenous medications use in health care settings / As pré-misturas como alternativa para o uso seguro de drogas intravenosas em ambientes de saúde

RESUMEN Objetivo: presentar el panorama de errores de medicación, los recursos asociados a la preparación de medicamentos intravenosos y el uso de premezclados en la aten ción en salud. Metodología: se realizaron búsquedas en diferentes bases de datos, sin límite de fecha o tipo de estudio. Adicionalmente se realizó un análisis para estimar los costos, validando con expertos los recursos en central de mezclas. Resultados: los errores de medicación son un error médico común a nivel global. Los datos disponi bles son heterogéneos, pero sugieren que los errores de medicación pueden ser una causa considerable de morbilidad y mortalidad en ciertas poblaciones y contextos, con intervenciones adicionales, estancias hospitalarias prolongadas, mayores costos de atención y reducción en la probabilidad de que el tratamiento sea oportuno y eficaz. En medicinas intravenosas resultan escenarios de mayor gravedad y mayor nivel de costos. Los costos laborales anuales para una central de mezclas en Colombia se estiman entre 281,5 y 422,3 millones de pesos. La estandarización, como parte de los fármacos premezclados proporciona menor riesgo de contaminación, menor posibilidad de error en la preparación, menor incidencia de complicaciones rela cionadas con la terapia, disminución del desperdicio, mejora en la oportunidad de dispensación, optimización en el trabajo de los equipos de farmacia y reducción de costos asociados con este proceso. Conclusiones: el uso de premezclados, como parte de un programa de reducción de errores de medicación, puede mejorar los indicadores de calidad en administración de medicamentos y garantizar un uso más seguro de la terapia intravenosa.

SUMMARY Objective: To present an overview of medication preparation and administration errors, the resources implied in the preparation of intravenous medications, and the use of premixed drugs in healthcare settings. Methodology: We performed a litera ture review without limits by date or type of study. Additionally, analysis and vali dation by pharmaceutical experts were carried out to estimate the use of resources and related costs. Results: The available heterogeneous data suggest that medication errors are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in specific populations and settings. Error medications cause additional interventions, prolonged hospitalization, higher costs of care, and a reduction in the treatment probability of success. Errors involving intravenously administered drugs have more severe consequences and generate higher costs. Annual labor costs for centralized medication mixing in Colombia are estimated between $281.5 and $422.3 million. Premixed drugs decrease the risk of contamination, the possibility of error in the preparation, and the incidence of complications related to therapy. Also, its use is related to the reduc tion of waste, improvement in the timing of dispensing, optimizing the pharmacy team, and reducing costs associated with this process. Conclusions: The use of premixes as part of a program to reduce medication errors can improve the quality indicators in drug administration and guarantee a safer use of intravenous therapy.

RESUMO Objetivo: apresentar o panorama dos erros de medicação, os recursos associados ao preparo de medicamentos intravenosos e o uso de pré-misturas na assistência à saúde. Metodologia: as buscas foram realizadas em diferentes bases de dados, sem limite de data ou tipo de estudo. Além disso, foi realizada uma análise para estimar os custos, validando com especialistas os recursos no centro de mistura. Resultados: erros de medicação são um erro médico comum globalmente. Os dados disponíveis são heterogêneos, mas sugerem que os erros de medicação podem ser uma causa significativa de morbidade e mortalidade em certas populações e contextos, com intervenções adicionais, internações hospitalares mais longas, custos mais altos de atendimento e probabilidade reduzida de que o tratamento seja oportuno e eficaz. Nos medicamentos intravenosos, resultam cenários de maior gravidade e maior nível de custos. Os custos anuais de mão de obra para uma usina de mistura na Colômbia são estimados entre 281,5 e 422,3 milhões de pesos. A padronização, como parte dos medicamentos pré-misturados, proporciona menor risco de contaminação, menor possibilidade de erro no preparo, menor incidência de complicações relacionadas à terapêutica, redução de desperdícios, melhoria na oportunidade de dispensação, otimização no trabalho das equipes. da farmácia e redução dos custos associados a este processo. Conclusões: o uso de pré-misturas, como parte de um programa de redução de erros de medicação, pode melhorar os indicadores de qualidade na admi nistração de medicamentos e garantir um uso mais seguro da terapia intravenosa.

Medication errors in a children's inpatient antineoplastic chemotherapy facility.

BACKGROUND: Due to many antineoplastic drugs' toxicity and narrow therapeutic window, medication errors are a health concern in pediatric oncology patients. This study aimed to identify and classify medication errors in a pediatric inpatient chemotherapy facility and evaluate the outcomes of these medication errors. METHODS: We conducted an observational retrospective study over 5 months in a chemotherapy facility for pediatric patients. The evaluation consisted of the review of the available medical records. The medication errors detected were manually recorded in a medical logbook. The International Classification for Patient Safety was adjusted to our clinical setting for the analysis, the terminology, and the classification system. A descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 286 medical records were reviewed; one type of medication error was noted in at least 97.6%, and 962 errors were identified totally, with an overall rate of 3.36 errors per visit. Most errors occurred in the documentation stage (643; 66.8%), followed by the administration stage (227; 23.6%). Of all medication errors, 37.2% had the potential to cause injury, but only five reached the patient (0.5%), and only two (0.2%) resulted in a severe harmful incident. CONCLUSIONS: Medication errors were common, especially at the documentation stage. Better documentation strategies need to be implemented to reduce the rate of near misses and prevent potential adverse events.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Los errores de medicación son un problema de salud en niños con cáncer debido a la toxicidad y a la estrecha ventana terapéutica de muchos fármacos antineoplásicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar y clasificar los errores de medicación en un centro de quimioterapia para pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados, así como evaluar los resultados de estos errores de medicación. MÉTODOS: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional retrospectivo realizado durante un periodo de 5 meses en un centro de quimioterapia para pacientes pediátricos. La evaluación consistió en la revisión de las historias clínicas disponibles. Los errores de medicación detectados fueron registrados manualmente en una bitácora. Para el análisis, la terminología y el sistema de clasificación, la Clasificación Internacional para la Seguridad del Paciente se ajustó a nuestro entorno clínico. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo. RESULTADOS: Se revisaron 286 historias clínicas; se observó un tipo de error de medicación al menos en el 97.6%. En total se identificaron 962 errores de medicación, con una tasa general de 3.36 errores por visita. En la etapa de documentación fue donde más errores ocurrieron (643; 66.8%), seguido de la etapa de administración (227; 23.6%). De todos los errores de medicación, el 37.2% tuvo el potencial de causar lesiones, pero solo cinco llegaron al paciente (0.5%) y solo dos (0.2%) provocaron un incidente dañino severo. CONCLUSIONES: Los errores de medicación fueron comunes, especialmente en la etapa de documentación. Es necesario implementar mejores estrategias de documentación para reducir la tasa de cuasi accidentes y prevenir posibles eventos adversos.

Evaluación de la gestión de recetas en un servicio farmacéutico de un hospital especializado

error de medicación es cualquier incidente prevenible que puede causar daño al paciente o dar lugar a una utilización inapropiada de los medicamentos, cuando estos están bajo el control de los profesionales sanitarios o del paciente, con potenciales consecuencias para estos últimos. En Paraguay las enfermedades respiratorias crónicas (EPOC, asma, etc.), junto con la diabetes, los problemas cardiovasculares y el cáncer son responsables de una alta morbi-mortalidad, registrando una prevalencia que va en aumento. Esta investigación tuvo el objetivo de evaluar las recetas prescriptas en el consultorio externo de un hospital especializado en enfermedades respiratorias y dispensadas en la farmacia, gracias a un estudio observacional de corte transversal, retrospectivo, y un muestreo no probabilístico que consistió en la revisión de recetas médicas de pacientes que acudieron al consultorio del Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias y del Ambiente durante los meses de septiembre de 2015 y 2016. Los datos se registraron en planillas. Se analizaron 4828 recetas, de las cuales 2421 corresponden al mes de septiembre del 2015, y 2407 recetas que corresponden al mes de septiembre del 2016. Los errores técnicos de prescripción más frecuentes fueron la ilegibilidad y la ausencia de dosis e indicación. Por ello, se plantea la importancia de establecer un programa de gestión de riesgos en los hospitales, para implementar nuevas tecnologías que faciliten la prescripción.

Medication error is any preventable incident that may cause harm to the patient or result in inappropriate use of medications when these are under the control of healthcare professionals or the patient, with potential consequences for patients. In Paraguay, chronic respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma, etc. ), together with diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and cancer, are responsible for a high morbi-mortality in the country, with an increasing prevalence; therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the prescriptions that were prescribed in the outpatient clinic of a hospital specialized in respiratory diseases and dispensed in the pharmacy through a cross-sectional, retrospective, observational study and a non-probabilistic sampling, by convenience, which consisted of the review of medical prescriptions issued to patients of both sexes who attended the adult outpatient clinic of the National Institute of Respiratory and Environmental Diseases, during the months of September 2015 and 2016. The data were recorded in spreadsheets designed for this purpose, and a total of 4828 prescriptions were analyzed, of which 2421 correspond to the month of September 2015, with a total of 5955 drugs prescribed, and 2407 prescriptions correspond to the month of September 2016, with 6195 drugs prescribed. The most frequent technical prescription errors found in the prescriptions were the illegibility of the prescriptions and the absence of dosage and indication, being the most frequent errors for September 2015, and the absence of dosage and therapeutic indication (79.76 %)and illegibility of the prescription in September 2016 (87.00 %). Considering the legal requirements, the absence of diagnosis was the prevalent error (Sep-15: 64.19 %; Sep-16:60.08 %). This is why it is important to establish a risk management program in hospitals to implement new technologies that facilitate prescribing.

erro de medicação é qualquer incidente evitável que pode causar danos ao paciente ou resultar no uso inadequado de medicamentos, quando estes estão sob o controle dos profissionais de saúde ou do paciente, com potenciais consequências para os pacientes. No Paraguai, as doenças respiratórias crônicas (doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica, asma etc.), juntamente com o diabetes, os problemas cardiovasculares e o câncer são responsáveis por uma alta taxa de morbidade e mortalidade no país, com uma prevalência crescente. Portanto, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar as prescrições feitas no ambulatório de um hospital especializado em doenças respiratórias e dispensadas na farmácia por meio de um estudo observacional transversal, retrospectivo e de amostragem não probabilística por conveniência, que consistiu em uma revisão das prescrições emitidas para pacientes de ambos os sexos que frequentaram o ambulatório de adultos do Instituto Nacional de Doenças Respiratórias e Ambientais, em setembro de 2015 e 2016. Os dados foram registrados em planilhas elaboradas para esse fim, e foi analisado um total de 4.828 prescrições, das quais 2.421 correspondem ao mês de setembro de 2015, com um total de 5.955 medicamentos prescritos, e 2.407 prescrições correspondem ao mês de setembro de 2016, com 6.195 medicamentos prescritos. Os erros mais frequentes encontrados nas prescrições foram a ilegibilidade destas e a ausência de dosagem e indicação, sendo que os erros mais frequentes em setembro de 2015 foram a ausência de dosagem e indicação terapêutica (79,76%) e em setembro de 2016, a ilegibilidade da prescrição (87%). Levando em conta os requisitos legais, a ausência de diagnóstico foi o erro prevalente (set.-15: 64,19%; set.-16:60,08%). Por isso, é importante estabelecer um programa de gestão de riscos nos hospitais para implementar novas tecnologias que facilitem a prescrição.

Medication errors in a children's inpatient antineoplastic chemotherapy facility / Errores de medicación en un centro de quimioterapia antineoplásica para pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados

Abstract Background: Due to many antineoplastic drugs' toxicity and narrow therapeutic window, medication errors are a health concern in pediatric oncology patients. This study aimed to identify and classify medication errors in a pediatric inpatient chemotherapy facility and evaluate the outcomes of these medication errors. Methods: We conducted an observational retrospective study over 5 months in a chemotherapy facility for pediatric patients. The evaluation consisted of the review of the available medical records. The medication errors detected were manually recorded in a medical logbook. The International Classification for Patient Safety was adjusted to our clinical setting for the analysis, the terminology, and the classification system. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results: A total of 286 medical records were reviewed; one type of medication error was noted in at least 97.6%, and 962 errors were identified totally, with an overall rate of 3.36 errors per visit. Most errors occurred in the documentation stage (643; 66.8%), followed by the administration stage (227; 23.6%). Of all medication errors, 37.2% had the potential to cause injury, but only five reached the patient (0.5%), and only two (0.2%) resulted in a severe harmful incident. Conclusions: Medication errors were common, especially at the documentation stage. Better documentation strategies need to be implemented to reduce the rate of near misses and prevent potential adverse events.

Resumen Introducción: Los errores de medicación son un problema de salud en niños con cáncer debido a la toxicidad y a la estrecha ventana terapéutica de muchos fármacos antineoplásicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar y clasificar los errores de medicación en un centro de quimioterapia para pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados, así como evaluar los resultados de estos errores de medicación. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional retrospectivo realizado durante un periodo de 5 meses en un centro de quimioterapia para pacientes pediátricos. La evaluación consistió en la revisión de las historias clínicas disponibles. Los errores de medicación detectados fueron registrados manualmente en una bitácora. Para el análisis, la terminología y el sistema de clasificación, la Clasificación Internacional para la Seguridad del Paciente se ajustó a nuestro entorno clínico. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo. Resultados: Se revisaron 286 historias clínicas; se observó un tipo de error de medicación al menos en el 97.6%. En total se identificaron 962 errores de medicación, con una tasa general de 3.36 errores por visita. En la etapa de documentación fue donde más errores ocurrieron (643; 66.8%), seguido de la etapa de administración (227; 23.6%). De todos los errores de medicación, el 37.2% tuvo el potencial de causar lesiones, pero solo cinco llegaron al paciente (0.5%) y solo dos (0.2%) provocaron un incidente dañino severo. Conclusiones: Los errores de medicación fueron comunes, especialmente en la etapa de documentación. Es necesario implementar mejores estrategias de documentación para reducir la tasa de cuasi accidentes y prevenir posibles eventos adversos.

Abordaje de la nutrición parenteral mediante la creación de un grupo multidisciplinar / Approach to parenteral nutrition through the creation of a multidisciplinary group

Objetivo: La desnutrición hospitalaria incrementa el riesgo de padecer complicaciones, agravado por la escasa formación y sensibilidad en nutrición clínica del personal sanitario. El objetivo del presente estudio es evaluar la capacidad de optimización de la prescripción de nutrición parenteral como consecuencia de la creación de un grupo multidisciplinar. Métodos: Se creó un equipo multidisciplinar para asesorar a los servicios médico-quirúrgicos en nutrición, optimizar la prescripción de nutrición parenteral e informar y empoderar al paciente.Se establecieron las bases para el funcionamiento de un grupo asesor de nutrición parenteral (GANP) que se reunió de forma diaria para evaluar las prescripciones de nutrición parenteral del centro, realizando una entrevista clínica y una valoración nutricional individualizada y decidió sobre el tratamiento nutricional más adecuado en cada paciente.Se establecieron diferentes grados de desempeño (pobre 0-20%, adecuado 21-50%, bueno 51-80% o excelente >80%) en función del porcentaje de NP centrales asumidas y el grado de satisfacción del paciente.Se proporcionaron encuestas de satisfacción voluntarias a los pacientes, y se valoraron en una escala de 0 a 10.Resultados: Se evaluaron 97 pacientes con NP durante un año. El 100% de las NP centrales fueron asumidas por el GANP (68,3% de las NP totales). El 92,7% de las nutriciones totales estuvieron indicadas correctamente y en el 74,8% la prescripción fue adecuada. El grado de satisfacción medio fue de 9,5/10,0.El programa obtuvo un grado de desempeño excelente. Conclusiones: La creación de un grupo de trabajo multidisciplinar contribuye a la optimización de la terapia nutricional. (AU)

Objective: Hospital malnutrition increases the risk of complications, aggravated by the scarce training and sensitivity in clinical nutrition of health personnel. The objective is to evaluate the optimization capacity of parenteral nutrition prescription as a consequence of the creation of a multidisciplinary group.Methods: A multidisciplinary team was created to advise the medical-surgical services on nutrition, optimize the prescription of parenteral nutrition and inform and empower the patient.The foundations were established for the functioning of a parenteral nutrition advisory group (GANP) that met daily to evaluate the center’s parenteral nutrition prescriptions, conducting a clinical interview and an individualized nutritional assessment and decided on the most appropriate nutritional treatment in each patient.Different degrees of performance were established (poor 0-20%, adequate 21-50%, good 51-80% or excellent >80%) depending on the percentage of assumed central PNs and the degree of patient satisfaction.Voluntary satisfaction surveys were provided to patients, and they were rated on a scale of 0 to 10.Results: 97 patients with PN were evaluated for one year. 100% of the central NPs were assumed by the GANP (68.3% of the total NPs). 92.7% of the total nutritionals were indicated correctly and in 74.8% the prescription was adequate. The average degree of satisfaction was 9.5/10.0.The program obtained an excellent performance grade.Conclusions: The creation of a multidisciplinary working group contributes to the optimization of nutritional therapy. (AU)

Accidental epidural catheter infusion of potassium chloride for postoperative analgesia: A case report.

An infusion of 100 cc of 0,2% potassium chloride was accidental performed through a thoracic epidural catheter, inserted to perioperative analgesia, to a 66 years old man who was scheduled for right hemicolectomy, 48 h after surgery. Paresis of upper limbs, flaccid paralysis of lower limbs and a sensitive level at T8 was observed. An epidural lavage with an initial dose of 20 cc of saline was slowly injected, followed for a saline infusion of 20 cc per hour. Neurologic signs were totally reverted some hours later and 24 h after the incident the physical exam was normal. We reviewed the clinical presentation of the complication and its mechanisms, the more frequent clinical evolution, as well as treatment measures and strategies to prevent the incident.

Administración de amoxicilina a un paciente con mononucleosis infecciosa. Reporte de un caso de reacción adversa / Amoxicillin administration to a patient with infectious mononucleosis. Report of an adverse reaction case

Objetivo: Describir un caso clínico de un paciente tratado con amoxicilina (AMX) mientras cursaba una infección viral, en el que se detectaron errores de medicación (EM) y reacciones adversas a medicamentos (RAM). Descripción del caso clínico: Paciente masculino de 7 años y 23 kg concurrió a la guardia del hospital presentando fatiga, fiebre y ganglios linfáticos inflamados. Se diagnosticó faringitis bacteriana y se indicó AMX 50 mg/kg/día vía oral/8 h. Al día siguiente, el paciente fue nuevamente al hospital presentando rash cutáneo en todo el cuerpo. Se advirtió evento adverso (EA) por diagnóstico erróneo y se diagnosticó mononucleosis infecciosa (MI). Se suspendió la AMX y hubo remisión del rash. Un farmacéutico hospitalario realizó la imputación utilizando el algoritmo de Naranjo (puntaje 5-8) y notificó al Sistema Unificado de Farmacovigilancia de Córdoba. Discusión: Es fundamental el diagnóstico adecuado de la MI para evitar el uso inapropiado de antibióticos ante una infección viral. En el caso descripto ocurrió un EM en la etapa de prescripción, debido al diagnóstico incorrecto, y una RAM por el uso de AMX. El puntaje obtenido permitió catalogar a esta RAM como probable, no pudiendo ser considerada definida/probada por no haber reexposición; aunque el EA apareció luego de la administración de un fármaco sospechoso y no existieron causas alternativas para explicar esta reacción. Además, el EA desapareció tras suspender la AMX. Esto enfatiza el rol protagónico del farmacéutico para promover la seguridad de pacientes y la importancia de las notificaciones. (AU)

Goal: To describe a clinical case of a patient treated with amoxicillin (AMX) while he had a viral infection. In this case, medication error (ME) as well as adverse drug reaction (ADR) were detected. Description of the clinical case: A 7-year-old, 23-kg male patient attended to the hospital with the following symptoms: fatigue, fever and swollen lymph nodes. Pharyngitis caused by bacteria was diagnosed and orally administration of AMX 50 mg/kg/day each 8 h was indicated. One day later, the patient returned to the hospital with skin rash throughout the body. An adverse event (AE) was noticed due to an error in the diagnosis, which was corrected and infectious mononucleosis (MI) was detected. AMX was suspended and remission of the rash was observed. A hospital pharmacist performed the imputation using the Naranjo algorithm (score 5-8) and notified to the Sistema Unificado de Farmacovigilancia of Cordoba. Discussion: Proper diagnosis of IM is essential to avoid inappropriate use of antibiotics when the patients present viral infections. In this clinical case, a ME occurred at the prescription, due to the incorrect diagnosis, and an ADR because of the use of AMX. The score obtained allowed us to classify this ADR as probable, and it could not be considered definite/proven because there was no re-exposure. However, the AE occurred after the administration of a suspected drug and there were no alternative causes to explain this reaction. In addition, the AE disappeared after suspending the AMX. This emphasizes the leading role of the pharmacist in promoting patient safety and the relevance of notifications. (AU)

Accidental epidural catheter infusion of potassium chloride for postoperative analgesia: A case report. / Infusión accidental de cloruro de potasio a través de un catéter epidural para analgesia postoperatoria: reporte de caso clínico.

An infusion of 100cc of 0,2% potassium chloride was accidental performed through a thoracic epidural catheter, inserted to perioperative analgesia, to a 66years old man who was scheduled for right hemicolectomy, 48hours after surgery. Paresis of upper limbs, flaccid paralysis of lower limbs and a sensitive level at T8 was observed. An epidural lavage with an initial dose of 20cc of saline was slowly injected, followed for a saline infusion of 20cc per hour. Neurologic signs were totally reverted some hours later and 24hours after the incident the physical exam was normal. We reviewed the clinical presentation of the complication and its mechanisms, the more frequent clinical evolution, as well as treatment measures and strategies to prevent the incident.

Servicio de identificación de discrepancias en el uso de los medicamentos en el entorno comunitario / Medication discrepancy identification service in community setting

Introducción: Los errores de medicación constituyen la causa evitable más común de los efectos adversos relacionados con la medicación y suponen una carga importante para la salud pública. El servicio de identificación de discrepancias en el entorno comunitario puede ser una estrategia útil para detectar estos errores en el ámbito comunitario. Hasta el momento, pocos estudios han analizado el papel del farmacéutico comunitario en la detección de discrepancias en el uso de los medicamentos. Objetivo: Desarrollar y estandarizar un procedimiento normalizado de trabajo para la detección de discrepancias en el uso de los medicamentos en el entorno comunitario. Métodos: El diseño del procedimiento se ha basado en estudios previamente publicados sobre el tema y teniendo en cuenta las Buenas Prácticas en Farmacia Comunitaria en España publicadas por el Consejo General de Colegios Oficiales de Farmacéuticos. Resultados: Se presenta un procedimiento del servicio de detección de discrepancias en el uso de medicamentos en el entorno comunitario y un diagrama de flujo que recoge los aspectos más importantes del procedimiento de forma visual. Conclusión: El documento recoge un procedimiento estandarizado para que el farmacéutico comunitario pueda detectar las discrepancias que existen en los medicamentos del paciente en su práctica diaria.(AU)

Introduction: Medication errors are the most common preventable causes of medication-related adverse effects and a major public health burden. The medication discrepancy identification service could be a useful strategy to detect those errors at the community level in the patient's day-to-day life, without requiring a transition of care. Up to now, few studies have studied the role of the community pharmacist in detecting medication discrepancies. Objective: To develop a standarized working procedure for the detection of medication discrepancies in the community setting. Methods: The design of the procedure has been carried out based on studies previously published and taking into account the Good Practices in Community Pharmacy in Spain published by the General Council of Official Pharmacists Association. Results: A procedure of the service for detecting medication discrepancies in the community setting is presented, summarized ina flow diagram that collects visually the most important aspects of the procedure. Conclusion: The document includes a standardized procedure for the community pharmacist to detect the discrepancies that exist in the medications of patient's day-to-day life.(AU)

The medication discrepancy detection service: A cost-effective multidisciplinary clinical approach.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the effectiveness of a Medication Discrepancy Detection Service (MDDS), a collaborative service between the community pharmacy and Primary Care. DESIGN: Non-controlled before-and-after study. SETTING: Bidasoa Integrated Healthcare Organisation, Gipuzkoa, Spain. PARTICIPANTS: The service was provided by a multidisciplinary group of community pharmacists (CPs), general practitioners (GPs), and primary care pharmacists, to patients with discrepancies between their active medical charts and medicines that they were actually taking. OUTCOMES: The primary outcomes were the number of medicines, the type of discrepancy, and GPs' decisions. Secondary outcomes were time spent by CPs, emergency department (ED) visits, hospital admissions, and costs. RESULTS: The MDDS was provided to 143 patients, and GPs resolved discrepancies for 126 patients. CPs identified 259 discrepancies, among which the main one was patients not taking medicines listed on their active medical charts (66.7%, n=152). The main GPs' decision was to withdraw the treatment (54.8%, n=125), which meant that the number of medicines per patient was reduced by 0.92 (9.12±3.82 vs. 8.20±3.81; p<.0001). The number of ED visits and hospital admissions per patient were reduced by 0.10 (0.61±.13 vs 0.52±0.91; p=.405 and 0.17 (0.33±0.66 vs. 0.16±0.42; p=.007), respectively. The cost per patient was reduced by €444.9 (€1003.3±2165.3 vs. €558.4±1273.0; p=.018). CONCLUSION: The MDDS resulted in a reduction in the number of medicines per patients and number of hospital admissions, and the service was associated with affordable, cost-effective ratios.

Costs and root causes of medication errors and falls in a Teaching Hospital: cross-sectional study / Costos y causas principales de los errores y caídas de medicación y caídas en un Hospital Docente: un estudio transversal / Custos e causas-raízes de erros de medicação e quedas em Hospital de Ensino: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objectives to characterize accidents/falls and medication errors in the care process in a teaching hospital and to determine their root causes and variable direct costs. Method cross-sectional study implemented in two stages: the first, was based on the analysis of secondary sources (notifications, medical records and cost reports) and the second, on the application of root-cause analysis for incidents with moderate/severe harm. The study was carried out in a teaching hospital in Paraná, which exclusively serves the Brazilian Unified Health System and composes the Network of Sentinel Hospitals. Thirty reports of accidents/falls and 37 reports of medication errors were investigated. Descriptive statistical analysis and the methodology proposed by The Joint Commission International were applied. Results among the accidents/falls, 33.3% occurred in the emergency room; 40.0% were related to the bed, in similar proportions in the morning and night periods; 51.4% of medication errors occurred in the hospitalization unit, the majority in the night time (32.4%), with an emphasis on dose omissions (27.0%) and dispensing errors (21.6%). Most incidents did not cause additional harm or cost. The average cost was R$ 158.55 for the management of falls. Additional costs for medication errors ranged from R$ 31.16 to R$ 21,534.61. The contributing factors and root causes of the incidents were mainly related to the team, the professional and the execution of care. Conclusion accidents/falls and medication errors presented a low frequency of harm to the patient, but impacted costs to the hospital. Regarding root causes, aspects of the health work process related to direct patient care were highlighted.

RESUMEN Objetivos caracterizar accidentes/caídas y errores de medicación en el proceso asistencial en un hospital universitario y; determinar sus causas fundamentales y los costos directos variables. Método estudio transversal implementado en dos etapas: la primera, basada en el análisis de fuentes secundarias (notificaciones, historias clínicas e informes de costos) y; el segundo, en la aplicación del análisis raíz-raíz para incidentes con daños moderados / severos. Realizado en un hospital docente de Paraná, que atiende exclusivamente al Sistema Único de Salud y forma parte de la Red de Hospitales Centinelas. Se investigaron 30 notificaciones de accidentes / caídas y 37 de errores de medicación. Se aplicó el análisis estadístico descriptivo y la metodología propuesta por The Joint Commission International. Resultados entre los accidentes / caídas, el 33,3% ocurrió en urgencias; 40,0% estaban relacionados con la cama, en proporciones similares en los periodos de mañana y noche; El 51,4% de los errores de medicación ocurrieron en la unidad de internación, la mayoría durante la noche (32,4%), con énfasis en omisiones de dosis (27,0%) y errores de dispensación (21,6%). La mayoría de los incidentes no resultaron en daños o costos adicionales. El costo promedio fue de R$ 158,55 para el manejo de caídas. Los costos adicionales por errores de medicación oscilaron entre R$ 31,16 y R$ 21.534,61. Los factores contribuyentes y las causas fundamentales de los incidentes se relacionaron principalmente con el equipo, el profesional y la ejecución de la atención. Conclusión los accidentes / caídas y los errores de medicación tuvieron una baja frecuencia de daño al paciente, pero impactaron los costos hospitalarios. En relación a las causas raíz, se destacaron aspectos del proceso de trabajo en salud, relacionados con la atención directa al paciente.

RESUMO Objetivos caracterizar os acidentes/quedas e erros de medicação no processo de cuidado em um hospital de ensino e; determinar suas causas-raízes e os custos diretos variáveis. Método estudo transversal implementado em duas etapas: a primeira se pautou na análise de fontes secundárias (notificações, prontuários e relatórios de custos) e; a segunda, na aplicação de análise de cauza-raíz para incidentes com danos moderados/graves de julho a dezembro de 2019. Realizado em hospital de ensino do Paraná, que atende exclusivamente o Sistema Único de Saúde e compõe a Rede de Hospitais Sentinelas. Foram investigadas 30 notificações de acidentes/quedas e 37 de erros de medicação. Aplicaram-se a análise estatística descritiva e a metodologia proposta pela The Joint Comission International. Resultados dentre os acidentes/quedas, 33,3% ocorreram no pronto socorro; 40,0% tiveram relação com o leito, em proporções semelhantes nos períodos matutino e noturno; 51,4% dos erros de medicação ocorreram em unidade de internação, a maioria no período noturno (32,4%), com destaque para omissões de dose (27,0%) e erros de dispensação (21,6%). A maioria dos incidentes não ocasionou danos ou custo adicional. O custo médio foi R$ 158,55 para manejo das quedas. Os custos adicionais para erros de medicação variaram entre R$ 31,16 e R$ 21.534,61. Os fatores contribuintes e causas-raízes dos incidentes se relacionaram, principalmente, à equipe, ao profissional e à execução do cuidado. Conclusão os acidentes/quedas e erros de medicação apresentaram baixa frequência de danos ao paciente, porém impactaram no custo hospitalar. Em relação às causas-raízes, destacaram- se os aspectos do processo de trabalho em saúde, relacionados ao cuidado direto ao paciente.

Uso de tarjetas de medicación en el manejo de estado epiléptico en un servicio de emergencias. Mejoras en prescripción, preparación y administración de drogas / Use of medication cards in the management of statu epilepticus at an emergency department. Improvements in drug prescription, preparation and administration

Introducción: Los errores de medicación (EM) causan una elevada morbimortalidad y generan costos innecesarios. El servicio de emergencias (SE) presenta un mayor riesgo de EM que otras áreas. El desarrollo de una herramienta que estandarice el uso de fármacos podría mejorar la seguridad y el proceso de medicación. Objetivos: Evaluar las mejoras en el proceso de medicación mediante el uso de tablas de medicación (TM) durante la atención del estado epiléptico (EE). Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio de tipo antes y después no controlado. La intervención fue el desarrollo e implementación de TM. Se relevó in situ la prescripción, preparación y administración de fármacos incluidos en las TM durante segunda quincena de Octubre y mes de Noviembre 2016, previo a la implementación de la herramienta, y en el mismo período de 2017, luego de la inducción e implementación de las tablas. Se registraron los EM y se categorizaron de acuerdo a la etapa del proceso en que ocurrieron. Resultados: En el período pre-intervención se realizaron 14 registros, 86% (12) tenía al menos un error; 57% (8) errores en la etapa de prescripción, 57% (8) en la de preparación y 21% (3) en la de administración. En el período post-intervención se realizaron 17 registros, 12% (2) tenía por lo menos un EM. No se registraron errores en la fase de prescripción, hubo 12% (2) de errores de preparación y 6% (1) de administración. Conclusión: La implementación de las TM para la estandarización del uso de fármacos en EE resultó una medida muy positiva, mejorando la seguridad en el proceso de medicación (AU)

Introduction: Medication errors (ME) are associated with high morbidity mortality and lead to unnecessary costs. The risk of ME is higher at the emergency department (ED) than in other areas. Developing a tool that standardizes drug use may improve safety and medication processes. Objectives: To evaluate improvements in the medication process by using medication cards (MCs) during status epilepticus (SE) care. Materials and methods: An uncontrolled before-and-after study was conducted. The intervention was the development and implementation of MCs. The in situ prescription, preparation, and administration of drugs included in the MCs was recorded during the second half of October and November 2016, prior to the implementation of the tool, and in the same period of 2017, after the introduction and implementation of the MCs. ME were recorded and categorized according to the stage of the process in which they occurred. Results: In the pre-intervention period 14 episodes were recorded; in 86% (12) at least one error occurred; 57% (8) were ME in the prescription stage, 57% (8) were ME in the preparation stage, and 21% (3) were ME in the administration stage. In the post-intervention period 17 errors were recorded, in 12% (2) at least one ME occurred. No errors were recorded in the prescription stage, 12% (2) were preparation errors, and 6% (1) administration errors. Conclusion: The implementation of MCs for the standardization of medications used in the RU was successful, improving safety in the medication process (AU)

[Impact of introducing assisted electronic prescription on paediatric patient safety]. / Impacto de la implantación de la prescripción electrónica asistida en la seguridad del paciente pediátrico.

OBJECTIVE: There have been very few studies on the effect of assisted electronic prescription on paediatric patient safety. The objective of this study is to compare medication errors that occurred before and after its introduction in a tertiary hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A quasi-experimental comparative study of medication errors detected before and after assisted electronic prescription introduction. All treatment lines were analysed in order to detect the point in the chain where the medication error occurred, as well as its type and cause. A Delphi study was conducted on the importance of each medication error involving doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. RESULTS: The study included 166 patients (83 at each stage). At least one medication error was detected in 92% in the pre-introduction phase patients (2.8±2.1 errors/patient) and 7.2% of post-introduction phase patients (0.1±0.4 errors/patient). The assisted electronic prescription led to an absolute risk reduction of 40% (95% confidence interval=35.6-44.4%). The main cause of error was lapses and carelessness in both stages. Medication errors were considered serious in 9.5% of cases in the pre-introduction phase, while all of them were mild or moderate in the post-introduction phase. CONCLUSIONS: The assisted electronic prescription implementation with prescription, validation and medication administration assistance systems significantly reduces medication errors and eliminates serious errors.

[Medication errors in a hospital emergency department: study of the current situation and critical points for improving patient safety]. / Errores de medicación en un servicio de urgencias hospitalario: estudio de situación para mejorar la seguridad de los pacientes.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of medication errors and incident types in a tertiary-care hospital emergency department. To quantify and classify medication errors and identify critical points where measures should be implemented to improve patient safety. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective direct-observation study to detect errors made in June and July 2016. RESULTS: The overall error rate was 23.7%. The most common errors were made while medications were administered (10.9%). We detected 1532 incidents: 53.6% on workdays (P=.001), 43.1% during the afternoon/evening shift (P=.004), and 43.1% in observation areas (P=.004). CONCLUSION: The medication error rate was significant. Most errors and incidents occurred during the afternoon/evening shift and in the observation area. Most errors were related to administration of medications.

OBJETIVO: Conocer la tasa total de errores de medicación (EM) y de incidencias en el proceso de utilización de los medicamentos en el servicio de urgencias hospitalario (SUH) de un hospital terciario que se producen e identificar los puntos críticos asociados para implantar medidas de mejora. METODO: Estudio prospectivo por observación directa para detectar EM entre los meses de junio y julio de 2016. RESULTADOS: La tasa de EM total fue del 23,7%, y los EM más frecuentes fueron los referentes al proceso de administración (10,9%). Se detectaron 1.532 incidencias, el 53,6% en días laborales (p = 0,001), 43,1% en turno de tarde (p = 0,004) y 43,1% en salas de observación (p = 0,004). CONCLUSIONES: La tasa de EM fue significativa, en su mayoría en el turno de tarde y en la sala de observación, así como la de las incidencias. Las más frecuentes lo fueron en relación con la administración de los medicamentos.

Design and validation of a questionnaire on nursing competence in the notification of medication incidents. / Diseño y validación de un cuestionario sobre competencia enfermera en la notificación de incidentes por medicamentos.

AIM: To design and perform a face and content validation of a questionnaire to measure the competence of hospital RN to report medication incidents. METHODS: Content and face questionnaire validation descriptive study. A review of the literature was performed for the creation of ítems. A panel of six experts assessed the relevance of the inclusion of each ítem in the questionnaire by calculating the position index; ítems with position index >0.70 were selected. The questionnaire was piloted by 59 RN. Finally, a meeting was convened with experts, in order to reduce the length of the piloted questionnaire through review, discussion and decision by consensus on each item. RESULTS: From the literature review, a battery of 151 ítems grouped into three elements of competence: attitudes, knowledge and skills was created. 52.9% (n=80) of the ítems received a position index > 0.70. The response rate in the pilot study was 40.65%. The median time to complete the questionnaire was 23:35minutes. After reduction by the experts, the final questionnaire comprised 45 ítems grouped into 32 questions. CONCLUSIONS: The NORMA questionnaire, designed to explore the competence of hospital RN to report medication incidents, has adequate face and content validity and is easy to administer, enabling its institutional implementation.

Seguridad en anestesia: error en la administración de fármacos LASA / Safety in anesthesia: an error in the administration of LASA drugs / Segurança na anestesia: um erro na administração de drogas LASA

La seguridad del paciente es prioritaria en el ámbito anestésico quirúrgico. El error en la administración de fármacos es una causa frecuente de incidentes críticos en el perioperatorio. Una forma de error, es la administración del medicamento equivocado debido a las presentaciones similares. El objetivo de este trabajo es la descripción de fallas en las barreras de prevención de incidentes críticos con medicamentos, en base al estudio de un caso clínico y al análisis de sus consecuencias. Metodología : Descripción de un caso clínico y estudio sistemático de la situación de riesgo en base al análisis taxonómico del paciente, individuo, tarea, equipo humano, lugar de trabajo y organización (PITELO) sugerido por el Sistema Español de Notificación en Seguridad en Anestesia y Reanimación (SENSAR). Resultados : Mujer sana que presentó paro respiratorio luego de la administración intravenosa de un fármaco en el postoperatorio. Se requirió 24 hs de terapia intensiva y múltiples estudios, luego de lo cual se diagnosticó un error en la administración de fármaco. La confusión se presentó con una dupla de ampollas LASA (del inglés: look-alike, sound-alike) de los fármacos atracurio y ranitidina. La documentación fotográfica evidencia la similitud y el diagrama identifica fallas latentes del sistema. Se estimaron los costos del error y se realizaron propuestas de mejora. Discusión y conclusiones : Se evidencia una falla en las barreras de prevención de eventos adversos y en el sistema de reporte de los mismos. Es necesario incrementar la cultura de seguridad en todos los niveles del sistema: regulatorio, institucional y personal.

Patient safety is a priority in the surgical anesthetic area, and errors in drug administration area frequent cause of critical incidents in the perioperative period. One type of error is the administration of the wrong medication due to similar presentations. The objective of this study is to describe the failure of barriers to prevent critical drug incidents; this is based on the study of a clinical case and an analysis of its consequences. Methodology . Description of a clinical case and systematic study of the risk situation based on the taxonomic analysis of the patient, individual, task, human team, workplace, and organization (PITELO), as suggested by the Spanish System of Safety Notification in Anesthesia and Resuscitation (SENSAR). Results . A healthy woman presented in respiratory arrest after the intravenous administration of a drug in the postoperative period. It took 24 hours of intensive care and multiple studies before an error in drug administration was diagnosed. The confusion was presented with a pair of LASA (look-alike, sound-alike) ampoules of atracurium and ranitidine drugs. Photographic documentation evidences the similarity of the ampoules themselves, and the diagram identifies latent system failures. The costs of the error are estimated and proposals for improvement are provided. Discussion and Conclusions . There is evidence of a failure in the barriers to the prevention of adverse events and in the reporting system. It is necessary to increase the safety culture at all levels of the system: regulatory, institutional, and personal.

A segurança do paciente é prioritária no âmbito anestésico cirúrgico. O erro na administração de fármacos é uma causa frequente de incidentes críticos no perioperatório. Uma forma de erro é a administração de medicação errada devido a uma apresentação similar. O objetivo deste trabalho é a descrição de falhas nas barreiras de prevenção de incidentes críticos com medicamentos, em base no estudo de um caso clínico e ao análise de suas consequências. Metodologia . Descrição de um caso clínico e estudo sistemático da situação de risco em base ao análises taxonômico do doente, tarefa, equipamento humano, lugar de trabalho e organização (PITELO) sugerido pelo Sistema Espanhol de Notificação em Segurança em Anestesia e Reanimação (SENSAR). Resultados . Mulher sem patologia que apresentou paro respiratório a pois a administração intravenosa de um fármacos no pós-operatório. Requereu-se de 24 hs na UTI e múltiplos estudos, logo dos quais foi diagnosticado um erro na administração do fármaco. A confusão se apresentou como causa deduplas ampolas LASA (do inglês: aparência parecida com o som) dos fármacos atracurio y ranitidina. A documentação fotográfica evidencia a similitude e o diagrama identificafalhas latentes no sistema. Foram analisados os custos do erro e realizou-se propostas de melhora. Discussão y conclusões . Evidencia-se uma falla nas barreiras de prevenção de eventos adversos e no sistema de reporte dos mesmos. É necessário incrementar a cultura de segurança em todos os níveis do sistema: regulatório, institucional e pessoal.

[Medication reconciliation at admission and discharge. A consolidated experience]. / Conciliación de la medicación al ingreso y alta hospitalaria. Una experiencia consolidada.

UNLABELLED: Medication reconciliation is currently one of the main strategies to reduce medication errors related to transitional care. OBJECTIVE: To describe a method that would ensure continuity of patient care as regards drug therapy from admission to discharge. METHODS: A description is presented on the methodology implemented in a tertiary hospital and the main results of medication reconciliation at admission and discharge of patients older than 75 years in the Trauma Unit during 2014. RESULTS: The phases of the methodology were: 1. Obtain medication history (at least two sources of information); 2. Analysis of discrepancies and validation of medication on admission: A checklist was made to standardise the process, 3. Report on the pharmacotherapeutic profile: a form was designed in electronic medical records, and 4. Medication reconciliation at discharge and patient information: presenting the dosing schedule and recommendations to the patient. The medication of 318 patients admitted to Trauma was reconciled (294 at admission and discharge) by applying this methodology during the study period. There was at least one medication reconciliation error in 35% of cases. The mean error per patient reconciled was 0.69. Written discharge information was given to 74.1% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: This methodology has allowed a workflow to be established that facilitates coordination between healthcare providers, in order to reduce medication errors and to respond to one of the main problems of continuity of care.

[Accuracy in the medication history and reconciliation errors in the emergency department]. / Adecuación de la historia farmacoterapéutica y errores de conciliación en un servicio de urgencias.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To assess the accuracy of pharmaceutical anamnesis obtained at the Emergency Department (ED) of a tertiary referral hospital and to determine the prevalence of medication reconciliation errors (RE). MATERIAL AND METHOD: This was a single-center, prospective, interventional study. The home medication list obtained by a pharmacist was compared with the one recorded by a doctor to identify inaccuracies. Subsequently, the home medication list was compared with the active prescription at the ED. All unexplained discrepancies were checked with the doctor in charge to evaluate if a RE has occurred. An univariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with RE. RESULTS: The pharmacist identified a higher number of drugs than doctors (6.89 versus 5.70; P<0.05). Only 39% of the drugs obtained by doctors were properly written down in the patient's record. The main cause of discrepancy was omission of information regarding the name of the drug (39%) or its dosage (33%). One hundred and fifty-seven RE were identified and they affected 85 patients (43%), mainly related to information omission (62%). Age and polymedication were identified as main risk factors of RE. The presence of a caregiver or relative in the ED was judged to be a protective factor. No relationship was found between inaccuracies in the registries and RE. CONCLUSIONS: The process of obtaining a proper pharmaceutical anamnesis still needs improvement. The pharmacist may play a role in the process of obtaining a good quality anamnesis and increase patient safety by detecting RE. Better information systems are needed to avoid this type of incidents.

Conocimientos relacionados con aspectos de la administración de medicamentos en la práctica de enfermería en tres hospitales del Atlántico (Colombia) / Knowledge related with aspects of administration of medicines into nursing practice in three hospitals of Atlantico (Colombia)

Objetivo: Describir los conocimientos relacionados con aspectos de la administración de medicamentos en la práctica de enfermería. Materiales y métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo entre marzo y mayo de 2011 en tres instituciones de salud del departamento del Atlántico, en el que se estimó una muestra por conveniencia de 103 enfermeras y un enfermero encargadas de realizar las actividades relacionadas con la administración de medicamentos. Se aplicaron dos cuestionarios; uno fue respondido por las enfermeras de los hospitales y el otro fue diligenciado por los investigadores por medio de la observación a las enfermeras durante la administración de medicamentos. Resultados: El 90.4 % de las enfermeras refirió que tenía conocimiento sobre las diferentes reacciones adversas que pueden presentar los medicamentos; el 53.8 % consideró suficiente la teoría y práctica adquirida en la universidad acerca de la farmacología; el 65.4 % manifestó que cuenta oportunamente con los insumos necesarios para administrar medicamentos. Conclusiones: Se encontró debilidades en el área de farmacología durante la formación universitaria, en la disponibilidad de insumos, en las entregas de turno y en los espacios destinados para la preparación de medicamentos. Un gran porcentaje conoce las reacciones adversas a medicamentos, pero tiene insuficiente conocimiento sobre términos farmacológicos como sinergismo y antagonismo.

Objective: To describe knowledge related to aspects of the administration of medicines into nursing practice. Materials and methods: We conducted a descriptive study from March to May 2011 in three health institutions of Department of Atlántico, which estimated a convenience sample of 104 nurses, who were responsible for carrying out activities related to administration of medicines. We applied two questionnaires, one was answered by nurses in hospitals, and the second was completed by researchers through observation of nursing staff during the administration of medicines. Results: 90.4 % of nurses had knowledge about various adverse drugs reactions that may occur, 53.8 % considered sufficient theory and practice learned in college about pharmacology, 65.4 % reported that timely had the necessary materials in order to administer medication. Conclusions: There are weaknesses in the area of pharmacology knowledge from university training, the availability of hospital materials, in nursing handoff 'during change of shift and in the spaces for the preparation of medication. A large percentage of nurses know adverse drug reactions, but there is insufficient knowledge about pharmacological terminology such as synergism and antagonism.