ISMP Medication Errors Reporting Program

NCC MERP Index for
Categorizing Medication Errors
NCC MERP Index for Categorizing
Medication Errors Algorithm
© 2003 National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention
Full-size copies are available: INDEX—www.nccmerp.org/010612_color_index.pdf; ALGORITHM—www.nccmerp.org/010612_color_algo.pdf
Definitions from ISMP and NCC MERP
Hazardous Condition (ISMP)
A condition or situation that could lead to or cause an error
(i.e., Category A).
Near Miss (ISMP)
A medication error that was detected and corrected before it
reached the patient (i.e., Category B).
Harm (NCC MERP)
Impairment of the physical, emotional, or psychological function
or structure of the body and/or pain resulting therefrom.
Monitoring (NCC MERP)
To observe or record relevant physiological or psychological
signs.
Intervention (NCC MERP)
May include change in therapy or active medical/surgical
treatment.
Intervention Necessary to Sustain Life (NCC MERP)
Includes cardiovascular and respiratory support (e.g., CPR,
defibrillation, intubation, etc.).
Submit a Report to the ISMP Medication Errors Reporting Program (MERP)
Mail: Internet: Phone:
ISMP www.ismp.org/merp 800-Fail-Saf(e) (800-324-5723)
200 Lakeside Drive
Suite 200 Email: Fax:
Horsham, PA 19044 merp@ismp.org 215-914-1492
About ISMP
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) is the nation’s only nonprofit, charitable organization devoted entirely to medication
error prevention. ISMP provides independent recommendations for the safe use of medications to healthcare professionals, government
agencies, accrediting organizations, the pharmaceutical industry and consumers. Its effective error prevention strategies, recognized
and respected worldwide, are based on information gained through analysis of reports to a voluntary national program as well as onsite
visits to individual healthcare organizations. ISMP is a federally certified patient safety organization (PSO), providing legal protection and confidentiality
for patient safety data and error reports it receives. For more information or to make a donation to support ISMP’s lifesaving work,
visit www.ismp.org.
A federally certified
Patient Safety Organization
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