Prescription-writing patterns and errors in a family medicine residency program.
Copies of 1814 prescriptions written by 20 residents were reviewed to determine prescribing patterns and the incidence of prescription-writing errors. An average of 0.69 prescriptions were written per patient visit at an average cost (to the pharmacist) of $13.35. Over one third of all prescriptions were written using the generic name, and "dispense as written" was specified on only 3.25%. On average, 21% (n = 373) of all prescriptions collected contained at least one prescription-writing error. Errors were characterized as omissions (6%), unfulfilled legal requirements (1%), incomplete directions (1%), dose or direction errors (3%), unclear quantity to be dispensed (3%), or prescriptions written for nonprescription products (5%). A correct diagnosis and treatment plan can be undermined by a written prescription that is incorrect or miscommunicates the intention of the prescriber.
Shaughnessy
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Department of Medical Education, St Margaret Memorial Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15215.
Nickel
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RO
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D011307:Drug Prescriptions / Q000592:standards*; D004363:Drug Utilization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000592:standards*; D008297:Male; D008508:Medication Errors / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008875:Middle Aged; D013022:South Carolina; D014956:Writing