Factors Influencing Novice and Beginner Nurses’ Intention to Report Medication Errors and Near Misses

Abstract

Introduction Novice and beginner nurses make more medical errors than senior nurses. However, there is significant underreporting of medication errors and near misses among novice and beginner nurses. Objective To identify the factors that influence the intention of novice and beginner nurses to report medication errors and near misses. Methods A cross-sectional exploratory study was carried out among third-year nursing students in a Quebec university (n = 143). Data was collected through a self-reported questionnaire based on the adapted Theory of Planned Behavior. Simple descriptive analyses and a series of contingency analyses were performed using Chi-2 or Fisher exact tests. Correction of multiple tests was done using Bonferroni test. Results All theoretical constructs were significantly associated with intention. Sociodemographic factors (age, sex, experience and education program) were also associated with intention. Discussion and conclusion Further studies are needed to identify the determinants of intention to report medication errors and near misses among novice and beginner nurses. More attention is required in nursing practice and education to act on these factors, thus encouraging novice and beginner nurses to report medication errors and near misses.