Stakeholder views do matter: a conceptual framework for medication safety measurement

摘要

Abstract Objectives With a view to advance medication safety assessment in and across New Zealand ( NZ ) hospitals, we aimed to develop a single multistakeholder‐informed conceptual framework to guide meaningful and cohesive measurement. Methods Stakeholder viewpoints on the dimensions and metrics important to include for measurement were canvassed using semi‐structured in‐depth interviews. Stakeholders ( n ?=?30) were purposively selected on the basis of their job role and expertise. Transcribed audio data were thematically analysed using a general inductive approach with the aid of NV ivo and mindmaps. Key findings The conceptual framework for measurement consists of seven key dimensions requiring multiple metrics relating to the following: (1) outcome goals; (2) financial costs and effectiveness; (3) medications and their use; (4) safety culture; (5) technical components; (6) factors affecting medication use by patients; and (7) staff competency. Conclusions Stakeholders require complex information across multiple dimensions to assess medication safety in its entirety. Our research, for the first time, canvasses and brings together the meaningful dimensions for measurement under a single conceptual frame. The developed framework incorporates wide NZ stakeholder views, increasing its relevance in the local context. It can be used to organise national measurement efforts in a more cohesive manner to better monitor medication safety progress over time.