Living the 'rights of medication administration' - a study of medication administration theory and practice

Living the 'rights of medication administration' - a study of medication administration theory and practice

Medication errors attract significant media and research attention and most of the nursing literature focuses on the nurse's role in such errors. Nurses are the clinicians who manage the last step of medication administration and as such are involved if an error in administration of the medication occurs. While, there is some literature discussing the application of medication administration theory to practice, there is limited research highlighting the experience of nurses in the process. The literature suggests that factors affecting the nurses' practice in administering medication are mainly linked to deviating from established procedures. This paper aims to explore the current literature of nurses' experiences in applying the theoretical principles of medication administration to their practice. In-particular the application of the 'rights' as the accepted standard operating procedure of medication administration will be reviewed. The historical presentation of the 'rights' as the golden standard for medication administration are that the nurse must ensure they have the right patient, the right drug, the right dose, the right time and the right route. Throughout time the 'rights' have evolved and in current literature it is unclear which of the 'rights' are considered standard. There is no national or international consensus. There is no consensus across the public and private sectors of health within Australia. There is risk of confusion and a compromise to patient safety as a result. With the advent of national nurses' registration in Australia this issue is important to raise and address. A review of the literature and focussed research can provide insight into the confusion and hence provide an opportunity for improvement. This may lead to practice changes and improved patient outcomes, increased job satisfaction for the nurse, reduced liability and risk to the organisation and curriculum that more clearly reflects healthcare industry needs and guides professional practice and standards.

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