Experience with an automated point-of-use unit-dose drug distribution system.
Two years' experience with an automated, point-of-use unit-dose system at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center (UCSDMC) is described. Growing concerns about the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the traditional unit-dose drug distribution system at UCSDMC, and the corresponding diversion of professional staff time from pharmaceutical care responsibilities, led us to investigate alternative systems. Criteria for a new system were developed and used in evaluating alternatives. Consideration was given to three possibilities: 1) improving the existing system, 2) automating the unit-dose cassette fill process, or 3) automating the final step in medication delivery at the nursing station. Based on the realization that our traditional unit-dose system was largely inefficient in today's hospital environment, it was concluded that the drug distribution system needed to be re-engineered in a way that simplified delivery and reduced waiting time. The Medstation Rx system marketed by the Pyxis Corporation (San Diego, CA) seemed to meet the need. During a 2-year period a Medstation Rx system was implemented in most of the hospital (in all but three specialty units) and evaluated. This system has resulted in several benefits, including a net savings in labor costs, a significant reduction in waiting time for first doses, and a reduction in dispensing errors. In the process, it was possible to minimize the disruption of pharmacists engaged in the direct provision of pharmaceutical care, thereby increasing their efficiency.
University of California, San Diego Medical Center, CA 92103.
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Ray
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Aldrich
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Lew
D001331:Automation; D002140:California; D016303:Clinical Pharmacy Information Systems; D004282:Documentation; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D004630:Emergencies; D005572:Formularies, Hospital as Topic; D008510:Medication Systems, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009738:Nursing Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration; D010607:Pharmacy Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012107:Research Design; D013597:Systems Analysis