FPGEE 2026 Practice Exam for NABP – The Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

A near miss in medication error is defined as an error that does not result in harm to the patient, despite the potential for harm. This concept is crucial in healthcare settings as it helps to identify and mitigate risks before any actual injury occurs. Near misses provide valuable insights into the safety processes and highlight areas where improvements can be implemented to prevent future errors.

The interpretation of a near miss focuses on the idea that while the error was made (for example, administering the wrong drug, wrong dosage, or wrong time), it did not lead to any adverse effects. This allows healthcare professionals to analyze such incidents, learn from them, and enhance safety protocols without the immediate pressure of dealing with actual harm to a patient.

Although there are other terms like reportable incidents or deliberate acts, they do not encompass the same preventative intent or the absence of harm that characterizes near misses specifically. Thus, understanding this distinction is vital for fostering a culture of safety in pharmacy practice and enhancing patient care.