What should an MA-C do if they discover a medication error has occurred?

When a medication assistant-certified (MA-C) discovers that a medication error has occurred, the appropriate course of action is to report the error immediately and document it. This practice is critical for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, reporting the error immediately allows for timely interventions that may mitigate any potential harm to the patient. Quick reporting enables healthcare professionals to assess the situation, monitor the patient for adverse effects, and potentially administer corrective actions as needed.

Documenting the error is also vital as it creates an official record of what occurred, which is essential for understanding the circumstances surrounding the mistake. This documentation is necessary for quality assurance, improving safety protocols, and preventing similar errors in the future.

Moreover, transparency in healthcare is crucial for maintaining trust and safety for patients and the healthcare team. Reporting errors promotes a culture of safety where learning from mistakes is valued, rather than encouraging a culture of concealment or fear of punishment. The health and safety of the patient must always be the primary focus in such situations.