Minimizing prescribing errors: A phenomenological exploration of the views and experiences of independent prescribing pharmacists
Aims
This study aims to explore the views and experiences of independent prescribing (IP) pharmacists regarding prescribing errors and strategies to mitigate errors in practice.
Methods
One‐to‐one online semi‐structured interviews were conducted with IP pharmacists across the United Kingdom. Verbatim transcripts of the interview were generated and coded using NVivo® 12 software for thematic analysis. A mixed inductive and deductive approach was used to generate themes and sub‐themes which were then mapped onto the framework of factors that influence clinical practice proposed by Vincent et al.
Results
A total of 14 interviews were conducted. Participants linked the risk‐averse nature of a pharmacist, self‐perception of their roles as medicines experts, and previous experience of keeping checks on doctors' prescriptions as a dispenser often made them feel confident in prescribing. However, lacking adequate diagnostic skills, inadequate prescribing training programmes, and dealing with complex patients often made them feel vulnerable to committing errors. Organizational and system‐related factors such as work interruptions and increased workload were identified as other factors linked to prescribing errors.
Conclusions
Independent prescribing pharmacists use a variety of strategies to reduce the risk of prescribing errors. Promoting diagnostic competency in their area of practice, strengthening undergraduate and prescribing curricula, and addressing known organizational and system‐related factors linked to prescribing errors can minimize errors and promote patient safety.
Other Information
Published in: British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
See article on publisher's website: https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bcp.15758
Funding
Open Access funding provided by the Qatar National Library.
History
Language
- English
Publisher
WileyPublication Year
- 2023
License statement
This Item is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International LicenseInstitution affiliated with
- Qatar University
- Qatar University Health - QU
- College of Pharmacy - QU HEALTH