Geometric probability distribution for modeling of error risk during prescription dispensing.

Purpose: The relationship between the number of prescriptions dispensed by individual pharmacy staff during a single workday and the probability of committing at least one dispensing error during that same workday period was evaluated using a geometric probability distribution.

Summary: A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 50 pharmacies located in six cities across the United States was conducted. A pharmacist trained to detect dispensing errors recorded the number of prescriptions filled by each pharmacy staff member and noted which prescription represented the staff member's first dispensing error (defined as any deviation from the prescriber's order) made during the observation period.

Control chart for monitoring occupational asthma.

Introduction: Work-related asthma has become the most prevalent occupational respiratory disease in the developed world. Occupational asthma is thought to affect 5%-10% of people worldwide. The first step in the diagnosis of occupational asthma is to establish work-relatedness.

Applying mathematical modeling to create job rotation schedules for minimizing occupational noise exposure.

This research developed worker schedules by using administrative controls and a computer programming model to reduce the likelihood of worker hearing loss. By rotating the workers through different jobs during the day it was possible to reduce their exposure to hazardous noise levels. Computer simulations were made based on data collected in a real setting.

National observational study of prescription dispensing accuracy and safety in 50 pharmacies.

Objectives: To measure dispensing accuracy rates in 50 pharmacies located in 6 cities across the United States and describe the nature and frequency of the errors detected.

Design: Cross-sectional descriptive study.

Settings: Chain, independent, and health-system pharmacies (located in hospitals or managed care organizations).