DRUG UTILIZATION PATTERN OF HIGH ALERT MEDICATIONS IN CARDIOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL–A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

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 in