Organisations potential problems

The purpose of completing an audit is to check the effectiveness of the systems in place within the organisation. From the audits carried out, problems and potential problems can be identified, thus leading to changes that will improve the overall system. An audit is defined as a systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating its objectivity to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled (BS EN ISO 19011 2002). Table 9.2 shows types of audits. 

It is important that all relevant information, communication and documentation are available for all practitioners involved in the care of the patient. The organisational aspect is to make this possible and easily usable for care. The professional aspect is to correctly use the system for input and output. This includes documentation and follow-up on aims, planning and all other relevant activities. The patient opinion and need must also be addressed and documented. Many of the problems have the potential to cause errors. This is described in Chapter 7 and also in other chapters. Here we focus on the basic organisational and professional features of the medication system in the elderly. 

The guiding principles for the selection or development of speciation procedures are similar to those recommended for other forms of chemical analysis. For example, the initial step should be careful definition of the problem, including listing of the analytical specifications (e.g. type of analysis, concentration range, potential sources of error). This step can be followed by selection of a suitable measurement procedure, nomination of a selective separation procedure (if required) and organisation of the total protocol. 

Studies conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations show that there are around 100 000 tonnes of obsolete pesticide stocks in developing countries. Africa alone probably accounts for up to 48 000 tonnes. Obsolete pesticides cannot only be found in developing countries in Africa, the Near East, Asia and Latin America, they are also an environmental problem in many Central and Eastern European countries. The main hazard, however, is the acute toxicity of these pesticides. They present an acute and potential risk both for the community and the environment. These obsolete pesticides are not only a barrier to sustainable development in emerging countries, they arc also a hazard for the global environment. The countries concerned are not in a position to solve the problems on their own. They have neither die technical expertise, the facilities nor the necessary financial means. For this reason, it is essential that the OECD countries provide support. 

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