Nursing home mistakes need more attention

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Medication errors may go undetected in nursing homes, according to a new survey.
Over one third of the U.S. population will be older than 65 by 2020 so the numbers needing nursing home care will increase. Standards need to improve before this, say researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia. They have carried out a survey in five different nursing homes where communication, relationships and leadership were measured. Staff admitted frustration, especially from disorganization. Few felt well informed or that they knew all that was expected of them.

Medication errors are a common problem in nursing homes. Because residents are elderly and frail, even a minor error may have grave consequences. The study suggested, however, that medication errors in nursing homes are not always reported. The 'front line' staff often seem to face too many demands to be able to face up to such errors. The researchers say that there needs to be a shift within the nursing home environment from a culture of blame towards a culture of support and safety. Nurse leaders can make a start by trying to improve communication on medication errors and other issues affecting nursing home residents.

Source
Nursing Forum October 2006