Paper Title
Nurses’ Experience of Medication Errors in Residential Aged Care Facilities

Abstract
Background: The incidence of medication errors is of great concern in residential aged care facilities. However, the experience of registered nurses about the issue has not been studied. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ experiences of medication errors and their suggestions to reduce these in residential aged care facilities.Methods:An exploratory descriptive design was employed; 12 registered nurses working in residential aged care facilities across Victoria participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection, and the data were thematically analysed. Findings: Four themes emerged from the interviews: i) work environment, with sub themes of inadequate staffing and increased workload; ii) external constraints, with sub themes of involvement of a multi-disciplinary team and work interruptions; iii) psychological impact; and iv) medication error prevention strategies. Discussion: This study identified that medication errors occur because of staff shortage, work interruptions, and varying factors of multi-disciplinary team involvement. Medication errors negatively impact staff, residents, and family members causing additional stress and frustration surrounding follow-up and management. However, practical suggestions provided by registered nurses could be implemented in future to reduce the occurrence of such medication errors. Conclusion: This study described the contributing factors to medication errors; their impact on the staff, residents, and family members; and practical strategies to reduce medication errors, based on the experience of registered nurses in residential aged care facilities. This study makes a novel contribution to knowledge and practice in medication management process in RACF. Keywords - Registered Nurses, Medication Error, Older People, Inadequate Staffing, Increased Workload, Work Interruption