CHI Saint Joseph Health Medication Safety Topics Adverse drug reactions (ADR) (Refer to Policystat) An adverse drug reaction is not considered a medication error. The definition of an adverse
drug reaction is any unintended response, an undesired response or excessive response to a
medicine that requires discontinuing the medicine, changing the medication therapy,
modifying the dose, admission to a hospital, prolonged stay in a health care facility or
supportive treatment.
Reportable ADR
o
A significant, serious, or unexpected reaction to a drug which is not typical (in
kind or degree) of most patients who receive the same drug. These reactions
require immediate intervention and a change in patient management.
Non-Reportable ADR
o
An unintended but generally anticipated reaction to a drug which is relatively
minor in nature and degree. Such reactions occur in a significant percentage
of persons who receive the drug but are considered to be acceptable in view of
the therapeutic benefit gained from use of the drug.
ADR Reporting
o
Any physician or hospital employee responsible for ordering, dispensing or
administering medications who suspects a reportable adverse drug reaction
should take the following actions:
promote the safety and comfort of the patient
inform attending physician (if applicable)
document in patient’s chart
report an ADR using either:
a variance report located on the
CHI Saint Joseph Health intranet
call pharmacy and give patient's name, computer number and
suspected ADR.
Medication Errors (Refer to Policystat) A
medication error is any event that resulted in or may have resulted in or lead to
inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the
health care professional, patient, or consumer. Medication errors will be reported and
trends noted via the performance improvement activities of the organization as part of the
