Strategies for risk assessment in medication management: A systematic review of their impact on patient safety and operational efficiency

Abstract

Introduction.  Medication management is a complex, high-risk component of healthcare and remains vulnerable to errors that might affect patient safety and operational efficiency. This systematic review aimed to evaluate risk assessment strategies used in medication management and to synthesise evidence regarding their impact on patient safety and operational performance.
Materials and methods. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Comprehensive searches of the Scopus and PubMed databases identified peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025. Using the PICOS framework, eligible studies evaluated risk assessment strategies within medication-use processes and reported patient-related safety and/or efficiency outcomes. Data were analysed through thematic synthesis.
Results. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Proactive risk assessment strategies - notably Failure Mode and Effects Analysis and its variants - were widely implemented across medication-use processes, particularly in high-risk settings. Their use improved the identification and prioritisation of medication-related risks, reduced error rates or risk scores, bolstered compliance with safety protocols, and optimised workflow organisation and resource allocation. Technology-driven tools further enhanced effectiveness by enabling standardisation and continuous monitoring.
Conclusions. Structured risk assessment strategies measurably improve patient safety and operational efficiency in medication management. Further longitudinal and comparative research is required to evaluate long-term clinical and economic outcomes.