2026, Number 1
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Rev Mex Anest 2026; 49 (1)
Labeling of medications in the operating room: a critical determinant of patient safety. Narrative review
Meléndez-Ordoñez JA
Language: Spanish
References: 21
Page: 36-40
PDF size: 488.84 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Medication administration errors are a leading cause of preventable harm in global healthcare systems, with consequences ranging from minor effects to catastrophic events, alongside a significant economic impact. In the surgical setting, particularly in anesthesiology, precision and safety are crucial for patient well-being given the high-demand environment that requires attention to detail. Medication administration errors during the perioperative period are frequent and can have severe consequences. Factors such as drug name similarities, poor labeling, and professional fatigue contribute to these incidents. Although the prevalence rates of these errors are low, their impact highlights the urgent need for effective preventive strategies. To mitigate these risks, solutions such as "Tall Man" lettering, color-coding, and label standardization have been proposed. The implementation of these strategies, along with the continuous training of healthcare professionals, is fundamental to enhancing medication administration safety.
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