How do I do an independent double check of high alert medications?

A: An independent double-check of a high-alert medication is a procedure in which two clinicians separately check (alone and apart from each other, then compare results) each component of prescribing, dispensing, and verifying the high-alert medication before administering it to the patient. While technological solutions such as computerized prescriber order entry and bar coding systems have great potential to detect human error, manual redundancies such as independent double checks still play an important role in error detection.

Studies have shown that manual redundancies detect about 95% of errors. Independent double checks serve two purposes: to prevent, though not dependably, a serious error from reaching a patient; and just as important, to bring attention to the systems that allow the introduction of human error. Independent double checks should be done on error prone processes such as the use of high alert medications.

For more information on pharmacy errors or prescription errors; or if you suspect that you, or someone you care about, suffered injuries or was the victim of someone else's mistake, then you should contact our attorneys who specialize in personal injury cases relating to medication errors and medical malpractice claims immediately for your free legal consultation. We are ready to learn about your case and to address any questions or concerns you might have, simply call us toll-free at 1-800-634-8767 or send a confidential e-mail at any time that it is convenient for you.