title: Developing a taxonomy for research in adverse drug events: potholes and signposts.
abstract: Computerized decision support and order entry shows great promise for reducing adverse drug events (ADEs). The evaluation of these solutions depends on a framework of definitions and classifications that is clear and practical. Unfortunately the literature does not always provide a clear path to defining and classifying adverse drug events. While not a systematic review, this paper uses examples from the literature to illustrate problems that investigators will confront as they develop a conceptual framework for their research. It also proposes a targeted taxonomy that can facilitate a clear and consistent approach to the research of ADEs and aid in the comparison to results of past and future studies. The taxonomy addresses the definition of ADE, types, seriousness, error, and causality.
authors.affiliation: Veterans Administration Salt Lake City Health Care System, Geriatrics Research, Education, and Care Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Nebeker
authors.forename: J F
authors.initials: JF
authors.lastname: Hurdle
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hoffman
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Roth
authors.forename: C R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Weir
authors.forename: M H
authors.initials: MH
authors.lastname: Samore
mesh_terms: D002965:Classification; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D008508:Medication Errors / Q000517:prevention & control; D012106:Research; D009626:Terminology as Topic