Recently the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (IMSP) released their annual update to the High Alert Medication Lists (https://www.ismp.org/recommendations/high-alert-medications-acute-list). This provides a current list of medications that create a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when they are used in error. This should provide organizations with the means to implement alerts and other safeguards that ensure staff are aware of the significance of medication errors in administering these drugs. Pharmacy Leaders should ensure that their organization’s High Alert Medication List is updated, including any alerts provided by automated medication dispensing systems.
Organizations should also take time to review the IMSP webpage to update their Look Alike/Sound Alike, Hazardous, and other special medication lists. The IMSP webpage has many other safety resources and guidance to support the safe preparation and administration of medications.
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