What does a medication error refer to?

A medication error primarily refers to a failure in administering medication correctly. This can encompass a broad range of issues, including giving the wrong dose, the wrong medication, the wrong route of administration, or administering medication to the wrong patient. Such errors can have serious implications for patient safety and health outcomes.

The concept of medication administration encompasses not only the physical act of giving medication but also the process of ensuring that all necessary checks are completed to confirm that the medication is appropriate for the patient at that time. This can include reviewing patient allergies, confirming dosages, and ensuring proper timing.

While incorrect labeling of medication, miscommunication between healthcare providers, and delayed delivery of medication can certainly contribute to medication errors or be factors in the medication management system, they do not directly define what a medication error is. Instead, they may serve as contributing factors or conditions under which medication errors can occur, but the core definition focuses specifically on the act of incorrect administration itself.