Cnfirmotian Bais
THE fact that you are easily able to interpret these words demonstrates a problem that is prevalent in dispensing errors…a problem referred to as CONFIRMATION BIAS.
Many errors reported to PDL are the result of incorrect data entry or drug selection in the dispensing process prior to checking by a pharmacist. PDL has analysed reporting data and has identified that the checking pharmacist fails to detect an error in a significant proportion of these incidents. It’s believed that the checking pharmacist expects to see the task performed correctly so the checking process is impacted by this expectation or cursory approach. Confirmation bias can also occur in the interpretation of hard to read prescriptions or in the checking of DAA packs.
When checking the work of another, start by reading and interpreting the information as if you were beginning the process yourself. Do not be influenced by interpretation of a script by another person, as they may have made an error. When checking a DAA, refer to the drug profile and think about what each of the contents should look like and in which timeslot they should appear.
Awareness of these potential pitfalls can minimise the risk of error and potential consequence for the patient.