What is one issue outlined in the "Do not use" list by The Joint Commission?

The use of trailing zeros for medication dosages is highlighted on The Joint Commission's "Do Not Use" list due to the significant risk it poses for medication errors. When a trailing zero is used, it can easily lead to misinterpretation. For instance, a dosage written as “10.0” mg may be mistaken for “100” mg, especially in written or printed forms, potentially resulting in a tenfold overdose. This practice can jeopardize patient safety and is therefore discouraged in medical documentation.

This emphasis on clarity and precision in medical dosing is vital for maintaining high standards of patient care and preventing avoidable errors. The focus on using whole numbers without trailing zeros aims to streamline communication and ensure that practitioners accurately interpret dosage information, thus enhancing patient safety and treatment outcomes.