TABLE 4.

Ways to avoid medication errors

Prescribing

Prescribe only if you are familiar with the drug and the paediatric practice

Check for drug allergies, interactions and contraindications

Confirm that the patient’s weight is correct

Write the weight of the patient on each drug chart

Make sure not to exceed the recommended maximal dose

Write legible prescriptions

Calculation

Write out each step of a calculation

Have the dose double-checked

Administration

Check the drug name, dose and patient identity before administration

Verify unusual volumes or doses

Listen to a patient, parent or caregiver

Hospital environment

Ensure suitable work environment for safe and effective use of medicines

Ensure sufficient training and continuing education in the use of paediatric medications

Make sure equipment is standardized

Develop a medication error reporting system

Adapted from reference 32