A medication administration workaround is the best example of a non-value-added step in the healthcare environment. Workarounds are typically informal practices that staff develop to bypass perceived inefficiencies or obstacles in standard processes. These steps often add no value to patient care and can introduce risks, making them non-value-added activities that should be identified and eliminated in the pursuit of process improvement.
* Medication double checks (A): Although time-consuming, this step adds value by enhancing patient safety.
* Medication reconciliation at transfer (B): This process is critical for ensuring accuracy and continuity of care, making it value-added.
* Medication verbal order read-back (C): This practice is an important safety step to confirm that orders are understood correctly.
References
* NAHQ Body of Knowledge: Value-Added and Non-Value-Added Activities in Healthcare
* NAHQ CPHQ Exam Preparation Materials: Identifying and Eliminating Non-Value-Added Steps
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