What do you need to know about independent double checks?
An independent double check requires two people to separately check the targeted components of the work process, without knowing the results of their colleague.
What is the error rate of independent double checks?
Numerous studies ( Table 1) have demonstrated the ability of independent double checks to detect up to 95% of errors. 7-11 Based on this, an error rate of 10% (1 in 10) can be reduced to 0.5% (1 in 200) by introducing an independent double-check process.
Why are double checks less successful than exogenous errors?
An exogenous error arises from conditions in the external environment, such as poor design of drug packages and labels, complex task characteristics, or unclear presentation of information. 13 Double checks are often less successful in detecting exogenous errors, even when the check is performed independently.
Are there any safety benefits to double checking?
The potential safety benefits of double checking rely on two key factors: two separate individuals verifying key information and independent verification.
An independent double check requires two people to separately check the targeted components of the work process, without knowing the results of their colleague.
An exogenous error arises from conditions in the external environment, such as poor design of drug packages and labels, complex task characteristics, or unclear presentation of information. 13 Double checks are often less successful in detecting exogenous errors, even when the check is performed independently.
Numerous studies ( Table 1) have demonstrated the ability of independent double checks to detect up to 95% of errors. 7-11 Based on this, an error rate of 10% (1 in 10) can be reduced to 0.5% (1 in 200) by introducing an independent double-check process.
Which is better bedside barcode scanning or manual double check?
For example, if the purpose of an independent double check is to verify that the correct drug, dose, and patient have been selected prior to administration, bedside barcode scanning will offer a more reliable verification strategy than a manual independent double check.