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Medication errors: prevention using information technology systems
Article first published online: 25 JUN 2009
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2009.03427.x
© 2009 The Author. Journal compilation © 2009 The British Pharmacological Society
Additional Information
How to Cite
Agrawal, A. (2009), Medication errors: prevention using information technology systems. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 67: 681–686. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2009.03427.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 25 JUN 2009
- Article first published online: 25 JUN 2009
- Received 9 February 2009 Accepted18 March 2009
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- CPOE;
- decision support;
- electronic health record;
- health information technology;
- medication errors;
- patient safety
1. Given the high frequency of medication errors with resultant patient harm and cost, their prevention is a worldwide priority for health systems.
2. Systems that use information technology (IT), such as computerized physician order entry, automated dispensing, barcode medication administration, electronic medication reconciliation, and personal health records, are vital components of strategies to prevent medication errors, and a growing body of evidence calls for their widespread implementation.
3. However, important barriers, such as the high costs of such systems, must be addressed through economic incentives and government policies.
4. This paper provides a review of the current state of IT systems in preventing medication errors.