Effect of improvement measures in reducing interruptions in a Japanese hospital pharmacy using a synthetic approach based on resilience engineering and systems thinking.

Abstract in brief

• This study investigates how interruptions in a Japanese hospital pharmacy contribute to patient safety issues like dispensing errors, by analyzing the problem using resilience engineering and systems thinking rather than traditional methods.
• Researchers collected data on pharmacist workload, work adjustments, and sources of interruptions such as phone calls and counter inquiries, then used causal loop diagrams to identify systemic factors and key intervention points.
• After implementing targeted measures like a medication tracking system and improved communication tools, the study observed a reduction in interruptions, demonstrating that addressing systemic issues can effectively improve pharmacy workflow and patient safety.]