Toward Increased Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions

Abstract

The determination of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) can be a subjective process complicated by lack of awareness and liability issues. Low ADR reporting is common in many health care facilities. In 1996, the North Broward Hospital District formed an ADR task force that implemented a specific definition of “adverse drug reaction” and new reporting policies. Upon completion of the program, reporting increased by 53%. Improvement occurred most notably in the medical/surgical departments, where reporting increased from 23% to 41%. This initiative shows that ADR reporting can be enhanced by education and that programs aimed at increasing the number of reported ADRS can be valuable tools for improving the medication administration process.