How barcode medication administration works

Barcode medication administration (BCMA) uses barcodes on the patient wristband and on the medication to perform a verification before each dose is given: right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, right time.

The nurse scans the patient wristband to confirm who is receiving the medication, scans the medication so the system can match it with the order, and receives a confirmation if everything agrees. Each scan is also recorded in the patient’s record.

• Physicians: orders entered correctly and timed to fit the administration schedule.
• Pharmacy: timely, accurate dispensing so doses are available when due.
• Nurses: active use of BCMA, scanning both wristband and medication every time.

BCMA works as a collaboration across the physician, pharmacy and nursing teams. The BCMA course on the Academy covers the workflow in more detail.