Medication Error Categorization

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Randi Trope
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Joined: 06/29/2013 - 21:42
Medication Error Categorization

We have been discussing some errors and we have had a discussion on what entails "life-sustaining measures." Some of these are obvious (CPR, intubation, surgical procedure, defibrillation and are clearly defined by NCC MERP Index) however, we are struggling with the not so obvious. How would you classify the following interventions (life saving or not):?

1. CPAP/BiPAP use

2. Vasoactive medication use (i.e. norepinephrine)

 

If you don't consider them lifesaving would you classify an error that resulted in the use of either of the above as an E or F (assume for both that the patient needed to stay in the hospital for other issues)?

 

Thanks for your help!

Randi