ABSTRACT 984

Abstract

Background and aims: The prescribing of medicines within the critical care setting is a point at which high error rates can occur with potentially catastrophic consequence. In an effort to improve the quality of prescribing within our unit a mandatory prescriber training intervention was introduced for resident medical officers (RMOs) in our institution. Aims: To determine whether prescriber training in paediatric critical care improves prescribing practice. Methods: A workbook was developed consisting of a critical care scenario. The RMO is given the background to the patient’s admission and a list of medicines that are available for prescribing. The RMO then completes the drug chart and details the rationale for their prescribing choices. At completion a standard feedback form is completed by the ICU pharmacist and returned to the RMO with comments but not scores. A copy of this is sent to the clinical unit lead and the hospital clinical governance committee. Prescribers identified as requiring support will receive remedial help from the clinical governance and pharmacy teams. An electronic record of clinical pharmacist prescribing interventions has been maintained. Results: 7 out of 9 (78%) RMOs completed the mandatory training. 1 participant identified as requiring further remedial help left the unit prior to training being offered. Data comparison of a two-month window before and after the intervention has shown an overall decrease in the number of clinical pharmacist prescribing interventions. Conclusions: Initial data suggests that the introduction of a critical care specific prescriber training intervention is effective in improving the prescribing on a paediatric intensive care unit.