ABSTRACT

Background: High alert medications (HAMs) are defined as medications that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when these medications are used in error. Though Medication mishaps with high alert medications may or may not be more common than other medications, the consequences following an error with these medications can be serious to the patient. Aim: The aim of the study was to conduct a Prospective Observational Study on Drug Utilization Pattern of High Alert Medications in Cardiology Department. Methodology: A Observational Study was conducted in Cardiology Department of Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital over a period of 6 months. A total of 87 patients administering High Alert Medications aged above 18years were included. Patient data was collected from the Case-sheet and recorded using patient data collection performa and applied WHO DUE indicators to evaluate Utilization Pattern of High Alert Medications. Nurses Knowledge of High Alert Medication were also analysed using self structured questionnaires. Results: This study shows that High Alert Medications can cause serious adverse effects when they are used inerror or as intended. Majority of reactions was associated with adverse drug reactions. Adequate remedial measures taken have reduced the drug related problems associated with High Alert Medications. Nurses perception scores showed that nurses have significant knowledge on High Alert Medications after providing counselling through leaflets. Conclusion: Drug Utilization pattern of High Alert Medication is appropriate to the standards and criteria of the study in the majority of prescriptions. Very few drug related problem such as Adverse drug reactions and drug-drug interactions were identified and adequate strategies have been taken to prevent these drug related problems. Nevertheless, the monitoring of High Alert Medications error rate should be continued to ensure its effectiveness. The comparison of nurses perception scores regarding High Alert Medications before and after the intervention showed significant improvement. Keywords: HAM; heparin; warfarin; adverse drug reactions; bleeding; hyperkalemia; haematuria; hemoptysis
Publication date: 01/03/2026

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/March/MS_IJBPAS_2026_9972.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.3.9972