A survey of medication errors in paediatric anaesthesia practice in Nigeria: A cross sectional study

Background: Medication error has been shown to be a common occurrence during anesthesia. However, in Nigeria, the incidence and causes of medication error during pediatric anesthesia have not been documented. Methods: This is a descriptive study conducted virtually with the use of Google Survey. A Google Survey form was distributed to members of the Nigerian Society of Anesthetists using the social media platform Whatsapp over a period of 7 days. The form was completed anonymously by respondents. Filling of the form was restricted to respondents who anesthetised or sedated at least one child weekly in the preceding 6 months. Descriptive analysis was done using Microsoft Excel, and data were presented in prose, tables, and figures. Results: One hundred and forty-two physician anesthetists responded. Most (88.7%) were from tertiary institutions. About half (52.1%) were resident doctors, 44.4% were consultants/postresidency, and 3.5% were diplomates. Over a third (36.6%) of respondents reported a medication error in the preceding 6 months. Common errors were overdosing (27.5%), underdosing (25.4%), and overdilution (15.5%). Seven (4.9%) respondents reported serious/life-threatening errors, of which one (0.7%) led to a mortality. Medication errors were reported to likely occur during a critical event (51.4%), during emergency procedures (50%) and at induction/airway control (36.6%). Weighing of children, proper labeling/dilution of drugs, and good team communication were suggested to prevent medication error. Conclusion: Medication error can lead to catastrophe in pediatric anesthesia. There is a high prevalence of medication errors in pediatric anesthesia in Nigeria. Measures and protocols to prevent and report medication errors are needed in Nigeria.