Module 1: Professional Accountability and Prescribing

Lesson 4

Reporting of adverse events to increase prescription safety

Nurses are strongly encouraged to report adverse reactions to any health product including controlled drugs and substances through a tool called MedEffect™ Canada, administered by the Canada Vigilance Program. This program collects and assesses reports of suspected adverse reactions to health products marketed in Canada and monitors the safety profile of health products once they are marketed to ensure that the benefits of the products continue to outweigh the risks.  The Guide for Health Professionals to report an adverse reaction is located at MedEffect™ Canada.

In addition, nurses can subscribe to Safe Medicationuse.ca to receive bulletins by email. This website is part of the Canadian Medication Incident Reporting and Prevention System (CMIRPS) and is supported by Health Canada to collect, analyze, and distribute information on medication incidents.