Barcode medication administration (BCMA) is an integral technological component of patient safety. One of our clinical partners required BCMA training for nursing students prior to using their facility as a clinical site. The facility training module required 4 hours of time as well as staff and resources. An abbreviated module specific to the needs of the beginning student was needed. The nursing school purchased 2 wireless barcode scanners identical to devices used in the facility. One faculty member and 1 laboratory resource nurse were trained in the use of the hardware and software. A library of barcodes for patient identification bands and medication labels was created. In addition, electronic medication administration records (eMAR) were developed using spreadsheet software. These were incorporated into a learning module on medication administration in a beginning laboratory course. The module was then made available for independent student practice. Students are now able to learn to use BCMA in a safe setting in a short amount of time. The eMAR with the BCMA is used in numerous laboratories and simulations throughout the curriculum. Students report satisfaction with the learning module. Our clinical partner is satisfied with the training as preparation for using BCMA at the clinical site.

Submitted by: Suzanne E. Cook, MN, RN, CHSE, CNE, Professor of Nursing, Olympic College, Bremerton, Washington.