What is the primary goal of using Bar Code Medication Administration (BCMA) in healthcare?

The primary goal of using Bar Code Medication Administration (BCMA) in healthcare is to reduce medication administration errors. BCMA is a technology that helps ensure the correct medications are given to the right patients at the right times by using barcodes to verify medications and patient identities prior to administration. When a nurse scans the patient's wristband and the medication's barcode at the point of care, the system checks for any discrepancies, helping to prevent errors such as administering the wrong medication or dosage.

This technology plays a critical role in enhancing patient safety by minimizing risks associated with medication administration. Other potential goals, such as streamlining billing processes, enhancing patient comfort, or tracking patient health records, do not directly target the prevention of errors during medication administration, making them less relevant to the primary purpose of BCMA.