Six Sigma: Measuring Medication Errors among Nursing Staff

Abstract

Medication administration is the basic nursing function, competent medication administration practice is more than performing the technical task of giving a pill or an injection. So Six Sigma provides an efficient mechanism for process improvement in health care. Six Sigma means a measure of quality that strives for near perfection. Six Sigma is a disciplined approach and methodology for eliminating defects in any process. Aim: This study aims to assess medication administration errors among nursing staff Assess nursing ‘level of knowledge and performance regarding medication errors. Using six sigma methodologies to evaluate medication errors among nursing staff. Method: The study conducted at As-salam international hospital by using descriptive design, it was conducted at inpatient units. Sample: One hundred nurse and multidisciplinary team. Tool: Data collection tools used in the study was structured questionnaire, observational check list and quality tools, cause and effect diagram, incident report and process map. Results: The study showed a highly statistically significant by using DMAIC methodology to measure the medication administration errors. , focusing on eliminating defects by reducing variation the vital few of the problem was medication administration errors (missed dose). Conclusion: It is apparent that the application of the Six Sigma methodology is extremely powerful in identifying, quantifying and controlling complex hospital systems. Profound organizational commitment and extensive staff training is necessary to effect and sustain lasting improvements. Project selection is key requiring projects with a clearly defined scope. Recommendation: Applying six sigma methodologies in different processes related to medication administration (handling, prescribing, and dispensing).