Information technology (IT) can be used to increase patient safety. The nurse uses IT in this way by:
A) creating redundancy in orders making them safer.
B) removing the need for verification by the nurse.
C) analyzing errors to develop prevention strategies.
D) eliminating the need for bar codes in medication administration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

IT can be used to increase patient safety. Errors are analyzed to develop strategies for prevention. Diagnostic test results are available faster to support treatment decisions and avoid redundancy in orders. When technology such as a bar-code medication administration (BCMA) system is used as part of the process of medication administration, fewer errors are made. After signing into the system or scanning his/her identification (ID) badge, the nurse electronically scans the bar codes of the patient ID, the medication administration record (MAR), and the drug to determine that the right patient is getting the right drug and dose at the right time. An alert signals a potential error, and it is the nurse's responsibility to verify all information before administration.

Information Technology (IT) Can Be Used to Increase Patient Safety