Authors (including presenting author) :
Boo MS(1), Wong KCK(2), Lee WM(3), Ng WM(4), Pang MC(4)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Neurosurgery, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong West Cluster (2) Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong West Cluster (3) Central Nursing Department, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong West Cluster (4) Quality and Safety Department, Hong Kong West Cluster
Keyword 1: :
Medication Safety
Keyword 2: :
High Alert Medication
Keyword 3: :
Nursing Standards
Keyword 4: :
Staff Engagement
Introduction :
Medication safety is one of the top priorities in healthcare delivery. The Working Group on Administration of Medication (AOM) was established in 2024 to address this crucial challenge by enhancing nurse awareness regarding compliance with nursing standards and developing strategies for reducing medication incidents. Its formation reflects a commitment to improving patient outcomes through systematic quality and safety initiatives focused particularly on high alert medications.
Objectives :
The Working Group aims to achieve five primary objectives including: enhance nurse awareness and compliance with nursing standards of administration of medication; develop and implement improvement strategies to reduce high alert medication incidents; participate in coordination of continuous quality improvement projects related to safe medication practice; standardize training materials; collaborate with Quality & Safety and Central Nursing Department in promoting medication safety.
Methodology :
Six task groups were formed under the Working Group. A comprehensive gap analysis was conducted as the initial activity. Several causes of medication incidents were identified, such as non-compliance, communication gaps, knowledge deficits, and workflow interruptions. A multifaceted intervention approach was implemented, including staff engagement initiatives like educational game booths and targeted training programs; specialized training modules for junior nurses; enhanced link nurse roles to provide ward-level clinical support; patient education through infusion device safety signage; collaboration with Pharmacy in standardization of ward stock management, medication trolley organization and technology advancement with smart drug cabinets to strengthen safety protocols.
Result & Outcome :
By 4Q2025, medication incidents had decreased by 63.8% compared to 2024, representing a significant improvement in medication safety. While acknowledging this achievement, the Working Group remains committed to continuous improvement and sustainability of these gains. The ultimate goal is to strengthen medication safety culture and ensure patients receive quality care in a safe environment, with ongoing efforts to maintain and further enhance current results.
