THIS week's contributor is Gerard Stevens, Managing Director, Webstercare - The power of the patient photo: The use of a patient photo in dose administration aids (DAAs) was among several measures that Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL) has encouraged pharmacists to adopt in a recent communique to members.
PDL's message was prompted because of reports of DAAs being provided to the wrong person. It reinforces the view that using a photo with your DAA service is among a number of best practice measures that will minimise the risk of identity error.
A high quality patient photo has always been employed within all Webstercare medication management systems like the Webster-pak. It joins numerous 'fail-safes' built into our systems, including the new QACheck software that can cut checking time by half with improved accuracy and reduced risk to the patient.
Webstercare fully endorses PDL's assertion that "consistently accurate packing and checking is imperative" to ensure patients benefit from their medications.
Pharmacists are well-trained to follow systems. But sometimes work pressures encourage the practice of 'work-arounds'.
This can be risky when it comes to the systems we employ for DAAs, whether for community or residential settings. Do you have the QACheck system?
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 26 Oct 20
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