When should a CRMA report a medication error?

A CRMA should report a medication error immediately after discovering it because timely reporting is crucial for ensuring patient safety. Prompt notification allows for swift action to address any potential negative effects resulting from the error, such as monitoring the patient for adverse reactions or administering appropriate interventions. Immediate reporting also facilitates a more accurate assessment of the circumstances that led to the error, which can be vital for minimizing future risks and improving procedures going forward.

Reporting at the end of a shift, as suggested in one of the alternatives, delays this essential process and could compromise the health and well-being of the resident affected by the medication error. Waiting for a manager to inquire about the error or delaying to the next medication administration creates further risks, as it prevents necessary immediate responses and interventions. Thus, immediate reporting is the best practice to safeguard all residents in a care setting.