Factors influencing nurses to withhold surgical patients’ oral medications pre- and postoperatively

SummaryBackgroundLittle is known about the influences on nurses’ decisions to withhold surgical patients’ oral medications pre and postoperatively or the degree to which decisions are consistent. The literature is devoid of information that clarifies whether or at what point withholding a particular oral medication may constitute a medication error.PurposeThis study sought to redress this gap in knowledge and identify factors influencing nurses’ decisions about withholding surgical patients’ oral medications.MethodsThis interpretive study recruited a convenience sample consisting of nine nurses from surgical wards in public and private hospitals on the Gold Coast, Queensland and northern New South Wales to participate in individual interviews. Data were transcribed and analysed using inductive content analysis to identify common themes.FindingsThree main themes illustrated important influences on nurses ‘decisions, including ward culture, nurses’ perceptions of their roles and patient factors.ConclusionsThe complex issues surrounding nurses’ decisions when withholding surgical patients’ oral medications are identified in this research. The findings will help to inform quality and safety in future medication management and lead to higher quality and safer patient care.