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Simple Solutions |
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When faced with a problem, sometimes it is easy to think of a solution. Medical interns don't sleep enough? Reduce duty hours. Mistakes are made when doctors write prescriptions? Use computerized order entry that will beep whenever a doctor makes a mistake. A new addition to the list of easy solutions that didn't quite work out as envisioned is decreasing interruptions during medication administration. Nurses are frequently interrupted during this important activity, and studies have indicated interruptions increase administration errors. However, a literature review in BMJ Quality found only weak evidence to support commonsense interventions such as creating "no interruption zones" or vests worn during medication administration. The authors note that more robust studies may be able to evaluate effectiveness. Nothing is simple, it seems. |
