A review of data from PA-PSRS reveals more than 3,800 reports in which medications were erroneously prescribed for and given to patients who had documented allergies to them.

Healthcare organizations have increasingly recognized the benefits of anticoagulation services in the inpatient and outpatient settings.

Optimal management of two patients requires a systematic approach and open communication between the emergency department and obstetrics department.

While occurrence of malignant hyperthermia is rare, the need for rapid response requires planning and advance preparation.

Safe handling of hazardous drug spills is different from other healthcare spills. Exposure extends beyond patients and healthcare practitioners because nonclinical staff are often involved with containment and disposal.

At the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), physicians keep lines of communication open and remain available and accessible to their patients after medical errors occur that result in harm.

The Second Global Patient Safety Challenge: Safe Surgery Saves Lives initiative introduced this checklist, designed to catch omissions in the actions supporting an operation before the patient suffers harm.

Use of alcohol hand sanitizers appears to be superior to traditional handwashing when the caregiver’s hands are not visibly soiled.

Rapid response teams have proven effective for hospitalized patients in distress outside of critical care areas.

Introducing certain forcing functions can help improve physician behavior associated with use of prophylactic antibiotics in preventing surgical site infections, according to a program undertaken at Temple University Hospital.

Previous wrong-site surgery data has been updated according to information submitted during the last quarter (Q2-2008).

This follow-up article looks at the frequency of incorrect IOL placement reports submitted since the inception of PA-PSRS. Process issues point to team effort as being a key factor in reducing the incidence of wrong IOL implantation.