The potential role of computerisation and information technology in improving prescribing in hospitals.
For physicians, prescribing of drugs is one of the most common actions in daily practice. In the continuum prescribing, dispensing, administration and use of drugs, failures may occur and can lead to patient harm. The use of computerised physician order entry systems is subject to much discussion regarding medication error reduction. This commentary analyses the issues where such systems can contribute to improved care.
Guchelaar
Henk-Jan
HJ
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands. h.j.guchelaar@lumc.nl
Kalmeijer
Mathijs D
MD
D003201:Computers; D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D006801:Humans; D008508:Medication Errors / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008510:Medication Systems, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000639:trends; D010607:Pharmacy Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000639:trends