Exploring the Effectiveness of Technology- Based Approaches in Mitigating Medication Errors: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Medication errors are preventable events in healthcare settings, causing inappropriate use or patient harm. They are a major public health concern and can have psychological impacts on staff. They are particularly common in Arab nations and are caused by factors like inadequate knowledge, heavy workloads, poor communication, inconsistent medicine, and lack of safety protocols. Interventions are effective in reducing unexpected errors in administration but not in verification jobs. Strategies to reduce interruption-related errors are needed.

Aim: The aim of current literature review is to explore the effectiveness of Technology- based approaches in mitigating medication errors.

Method: A systematic search of databases, including PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science, was conducted to classify important studies published between 2019 and 2023. The study requires English-language communication, full-text papers published on technology-based approaches to reduce medication errors. It must include an intervention designed to reduce errors and assess prevention effectiveness. Research older than 2019, non-English, or grey articles is excluded.

Results: Within this systematic literature, four subthemes have been identified as electronic based prescription & medial record, blockchain technique, knowledge about the dose of medication and simulation based Learning.

 Conclusion: It is concluded that electronic bar codes on medication labels and packaging can improve patient safety by encoding medical record numbers. Blockchain technology can track drug transportation, potentially transforming drug supply chains. Barriers to reporting errors include organizational and professional issues. Problem-based learning methodology enhances social, communication, and self-learning skills, but requires human resources and continuous training.