It's about three Denver nurses who've been indicted for negligent homicide for a medication error that led to an infant's death. If convicted, the nurses could go to prison. But I also know that nurses administer millions of medications each year. And we do it in the context of staff reductions, sicker and more vulnerable patients, new and more potent drugs, and ever-changing drug information that even pharmacists can't keep up with. Frankly, I'm amazed at our wonderful track record.
Medication errors are never simple.
In addition, copies of our article as well as letters, phone calls, and E-mail will go to strategic journals and people. I also hope that Colorado nurses will register their loud concern through the Colorado Nurses' Association and their elected officials. You also can play an important role. When you go to conventions this summer and fall, make this crucial issue part of the association's agenda. Bring it up at the business meeting and step up to the microphone at sessions.