The role of work context factors in medication administration errors

Background. The incidence of medication administration errors (MAE) is high and costly for patients and health institutions. Human factors and factors relating to the work context intervene in their occurrence. The aim of this article is to identify the role of factors in the work setting related to occurrence of MAEs in the hospital field. Methods. A narrative review of the literature. Eight articles were included following a review of MEDLINE, CINAHL and COCHRANE LIBRARY databases for the 2002-2012 period. Results. Distractions and interruptions, work overload, design of units and characteristics of the material stood out amongst the work context factors intervening in the occurrence of medication administration errors. Conclusions. The creation of organizational artefacts to reduce interruptions; patient involvement in medication administration; the introduction of new technologies and improving the labelling of medications can help reduce the incidence of medication administration errors. To advance in identifying and managing factors that are precursors of medication administration errors, we recommend the carrying out of studies or reviews of prospective cohorts.