Associations Identify Key to Avoiding Medication Errors with Pediatric Patients
Medication errors are among the most common and preventable causes of harm to pediatric patients. Often, these errors are related to incorrect dosing because pediatric medication doses are weight-based, unlike the standard dosing units used for adult patients, and the recommended dosages given in terms of kilograms. But children are still weighed on scales that read in pounds or kilograms.
Sentinel Event Alert on the Safe Use of Opioids and How IT Can Help
On August 8, The Joint Commission released a Sentinel Event Alert titled “Safe use of opioids in hospitals.” Sentinel events are unexpected occurrences involving death, serious injury, or the risk thereof. Hospitals must immediately investigate and respond to sentinel events, and The Joint Commission reviews organizations’ responses to sentinel events as part of its accreditation surveys.
Antimicrobial Handrails Protect Against Microbial Growth
Real Healthcare Reform
By Susan Carr
Although political discussion of healthcare reform in the United States today tends toward buzzwords and scare tactics, profound changes to healthcare delivery are currently underway. At the Quality Colloquium, which I’m attending this week, providers, executives, consultants, and consumers/patients are talking about transformative changes in the way care is delivered and in the definition of “healthcare” itself.
Enhanced Critical Test Results Management Solution Improves Patient Care
Covidien Announces FDA 510(k) Clearance of the Nellcor Bedside SpO2 Patient Monitoring System
Covidien, a leading global provider of healthcare products and recognized innovator in patient monitoring and respiratory care solutions, has been granted 510(k) clearance to market the Covidien Nellcor Bedside SpO2Patient Monitoring System by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
PSO Services Group Launches National Medical Safety Board
The PSO Services Group, LLC, a Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) AHRQ listed National Patient Safety Organization (PSO), has launched a multi-disciplinary National Medical Safety Board (NMSB), designed along the lines of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Cardinal Health Foundation Provides $1.1 Million in Grant Funding to Improve Patient Safety
The Cardinal Health Foundation has announced 42 grants, totaling nearly $1.1 million, to help U.S. hospitals, health systems and community health organizations improve the effectiveness, efficiency and excellence of patient care.