Implementation and Optimization of Bar Code Medication Administration

Administration of medications is one of the most error-prone stages in the medication use process and the least likely to be intercepted. Strategies to enhance safety of medication include implementing bar code medication administration (BCMA) technology. The goal was to fully implement BCMA at the medical center through a phased approach by December 2014 and to achieve 95 percent compliance with scanning medications and patients. Quality initiatives prior to implementation included conducting a multidisciplinary kaizen event to create workflows for unique pharmacy items, engaging the end users by forming a BCMA subject matter expert group, engaging key leaders by forming a BCMA clinical champion committee and conducting a BCMA readiness self-assessment from the Institute for Safe Medication Practices.

During the multiphase go-live, patient and medication scanning compliance consistently exceeded 96 percent. To enhance process safety and reduce alert fatigue, several data sources were analyzed to ensure accuracy of scanning. Near-miss alerts are reviewed on a monthly basis to identify opportunities to optimize workflows and reduce false alerts.

This case study is part of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association's annual Quality Excellence Achievement Awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals and health systems in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These organizations are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim—improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction), improving the health of populations, and reducing the per capita cost of health care—and the Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement—safe, effective, patient centered, timely, efficient, and equitable. To learn more, visit https://www.ihaqualityawards.org/javascript-ui/IHAQualityAward/