Pharmacists’ Perspectives on Medication Errors in Intensive and Critical Care Units: Causes, Consequences, Prevention, and Management Strategies – A Qualitative Study

Background Medication errors are common in critical care units (CRCU) in developing countries. Little is known about the causes of these errors and the role of pharmacists in preventing and managing them in Iraqi hospitals. The aim of this study is to get in-depth understanding of the perspectives and practice of Iraqi pharmacists’ regarding medication errors in CRCU. Methods A qualitative study was conducted by interviewing pharmacists working at CRCU of Al Husain hospital in Almuthanna city/Iraq. The data was analyzed by thematic analysis. Results Sixteen pharmacists participated. The emerged study themes included: perceptions and experiences of pharmacists about prescribing errors in CRCU, types and determinants of prescribing errors, and detection, prevention and management of prescribing errors. Conclusion Prescribing errors, mainly dosing and drug interactions, are common in CRCU, often caused by physician negligence, limited competence, and workload. Pharmacists rely on general apps for detection. Targeted training and specialized tools are recommended to reduce errors.