OASIS-Central

What are high-risk medications?

• Approved list of high-alert medications identified by The Joint Commission, The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), Beers Criteria, etc
• Links to high-risk medications can be found in Chapter 5 of the OASIS-C Guidance Manual

OASIS-C process measures related to high-risk medications:

• Documented in M2010: Drug education – provided on special precautions for high-risk meds and reporting of problems that may occur
• Documented in M2015: Drug intervention – education to monitor effectiveness of drug therapy and report problems that may occur
• Both are endorsed by the National Quality Forum and publicly reported

Best Practices:

• Investigate electronic programs or other sources to aid in identification of medication issues such as duplicate meds, contraindications, and adverse interactions
• Establish a communication plan with physicians
• Educate staff on approved high-risk meds and issues for patients to report

This information was adapted from Beacon Health’s audio conference series, OASIS-C Process Measures: Best Practice Strategies that Reduce Risk. The final session was devoted to Examining Depression, Pain, and High-risk Medications and was presented by Laurie Salmons, RN, BSN.