Narcotic Drug Management Processes Practice: University Hospital Example

Abstract

This study aimed to develop new recommendations to increase patient and employee safety in drug use, reduce medication errors, and especially control narcotic and high-risk drug use. In order to achieve this aim, the quality practices of Pamukkale University Hospitals for drug management and safety were evaluated with the numerical data obtained after the improvement. First, plans were created for pharmacies, operating rooms, intensive care units, and clinics in compliance with the Quality Standards in Health. Unannounced inspections were performed on the units in line with the determined procedures and instructions by creating teams. During the inspections, physical adjustments were made in the warehouses and systemic adjustments were made in drug demands. After these actions, a 20% difference in drug consumption was found in two separate periods. Controls on the basis of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists played an active role, especially in pharmacy management, drug returns, and prevention of medication errors. The results clearly show that the execution of the drug management process in hospitals ensures patient and employee safety, preventing the uncontrolled circulation of drugs and errors in practice and helping increase drug safety awareness among employees. © Author(s).