Summary
This guide provides essential information for Long Term Care Facility (LTCF) staff to manage survey risk related to medication error rates, specifically focusing on the compliance cue F759 from the CMS State Operations Manual Appendix PP. It outlines the definition of medication errors and the criteria for calculating medication error rates, which must remain below 5 percent. The document details various types of medication errors, including omissions, unauthorized medications, and incorrect dosages, among others. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to prescriber orders and manufacturer specifications during medication administration. Additionally, the guide highlights critical elements that surveyors will review and offers best practices for medication administration, including the proper handling of insulin and the use of feeding tubes. It also encourages facilities to utilize available resources, such as consultant pharmacists, to ensure compliance with regulations and improve patient outcomes.
