Prevalence of Medication Errors and Its Associated Factors at District Hospital A in Sabah – A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Introduction: Medication errors (MEs) remain a major patient safety concern globally and contribute significantly to avoidable harm within healthcare systems.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of near‑miss medication errors and identify factors associated with these errors among healthcare workers at District Hospital A in Sabah.

Methods: A cross‑sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the Pharmacy Information System (PHIS) for the year 2023 and a structured questionnaire administered to healthcare workers. Descriptive statistics, Chi‑square tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 29.

Results: The overall prevalence of near‑miss medication errors was 3.6%. The prevalence was higher in inpatient wards (8.8%) compared with outpatient settings (2.6%). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified high patient‑to‑staff ratio (OR 26.7), inadequate workspace layout (OR 53.8) and insufficient equipment and technology (OR 58.6) as significant predictors of medication errors.

Conclusions: Workload pressures, environmental constraints, and limited technological resources contribute substantially to medication errors. Addressing these factors through improved staffing allocation, workspace redesign, and technological investment may significantly enhance medication safety in District Hospital A.