Publication: Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding medication error reporting among nursing students at Universiti Sains Malaysia
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Date
2026-08
Authors
Izing, Danniella Eastern
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Abstract
Medication errors are frequently reported across various healthcare settings, including tertiary hospitals and primary healthcare facilities. They may result in adverse health outcomes if they are not appropriately prevented or reported. Nursing students play an important role in the medication administration process during their clinical training. Therefore, adequate knowledge, favourable attitudes, and safe practices regarding medication error prevention and reporting are essential. This study aimed to determine the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding medication error prevention and reporting among nursing students at the School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), and to examine the relationships among these variables. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 69 nursing students selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured, selfadministered questionnaire adapted from previously validated instruments. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding medication error prevention and reporting. Spearman's rank correlation was employed to determine the relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The findings demonstrated that the respondents had a high level of knowledge regarding medication error reporting, with item mean scores ranging from 4.58 ± 0.55 to 4.68 ± 0.50. The overall attitude towards medication error reporting was less favourable according to the predetermined cut-off score, with item mean scores ranging from 2.71 ± 1.51 to 3.74 ± 1.20. Nursing students demonstrated a high level of medication error prevention and reporting practices, with an overall mean practice score of 14.12 ± 1.54 (range: 8–15). Correlation analysis revealed a significant weak positive relationship between knowledge and practice (rₛ = 0.284, p = 0.018). However, no significant relationships were found between knowledge and attitude (rₛ = 0.147, p = 0.228) or between attitude and practice (rₛ = 0.092, p = 0.452). In conclusion, nursing students at Universiti Sains Malaysia demonstrated adequate knowledge and good practices regarding medication error prevention and reporting. However, attitudes towards medication error reporting require further improvement. Strengthening medication safety education, simulation-based training, and the promotion of a supportive, non-punitive reporting culture may enhance nursing students' confidence and preparedness to report medication errors and contribute to safer patient care.
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