A nurse manager is reviewing the rate of medication errors on a surgical floor and finds that it is 20% above the national average. Which of the following actions should the nurse manager take?

A. Observe staff medication administration procedures: While observation can provide valuable insights into workflow and potential areas for improvement, it may not address the underlying causes of medication errors or provide comprehensive data for quality improvement efforts.
B. Require staff to complete a medication administration review module: Education and training are important components of improving medication safety, but they may not be the most
immediate or effective response to addressing an elevated rate of medication errors.

C. Identify data that should be collected related to medication errors: This is the correct answer.

Before implementing interventions to address medication errors, it is important to gather comprehensive data on the types, causes, and frequency of errors. This data will help identify specific areas for improvement and guide the development of targeted interventions.
D. Re-evaluate staff performance in relation to the established standard: While ongoing evaluation of staff performance is important for maintaining quality care, it may not be the most appropriate first step when addressing an elevated rate of medication errors. Gathering data on medication errors and their contributing factors is essential for understanding the root causes of the problem and developing effective solutions.

A. Pharmacist: While a pharmacist may provide information about medications and their administration, they may not be the appropriate referral for addressing financial concerns related to medical equipment.
B. Child protective services: Referring to child protective services is not appropriate in this situation, as it does not involve issues of abuse or neglect.
C. Respiratory therapist: While a respiratory therapist may be involved in the child's care, they may not be the appropriate referral for addressing financial concerns.
D. Social worker: This is the correct answer. Social workers are trained to assist patients and families with accessing resources and support services, including financial assistance programs, that can help with the cost of medical equipment such as nebulizers. They can assess the family's financial situation and connect them with appropriate resources to obtain the necessary equipment for their child's asthma management.