[Solved]: Recent internal evaluations have revealed that the…

Recent internal evaluations have revealed that the 6E unit at Trinity Health Hospital is not meeting the established benchmark for barcode medication administration (BCMA) scanning. The target rate for BCMA compliance is set at 95% for both patient identification wristbands and the medications being administered. However, current scanning rates fall notably short of this target, raising concerns about the efficacy and safety of the medication administration process. Between January 2025 and June 2025, a series of observations were conducted involving 22 nurses. During this period, these nurses administered a total of 442 medications to 107 patients. The findings showed that only 71% of patient ID wristbands and 80% of all medications were successfully scanned. These percentages are significantly below the 95% benchmark, highlighting a growing concern regarding the reliability of the medication administration workflow and the potential risk for medication errors. Interviews with the 22 observed nurses provided insight into the causes behind the reduced scanning rates. The staff reported several challenges, including shortages of scanning equipment and the perception that workstation on wheels (WOWs) are too cumbersome for routine use. As a result, the WOWs are frequently left in hallways instead of being brought into patient rooms, leading to the bypassing of established scanning protocols. The use of workarounds in BCMA processes has directly contributed to several adverse drug events in the unit. Specifically, there have been instances where seven patients required intensive medical intervention after receiving incorrect medications due to the circumvention of BCMA scanning procedures. In response to the challenges identified, the team has proposed the introduction of portable wireless electronic medication administration record (eMAR) devices. This solution would involve equipping the nursing staff with smartphones and tablets that have integrated scanning applications.