Computerised provider order entry reduces child chemotherapy errors
CPOE systems automate dose calculations and encourage
complete data entry |
Implementing a computerised provider order entry (CPOE) system reduces the number of errors made when ordering paediatric chemotherapy, according to researchers at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, US.
Audit data was collected for 241 days before CPOE was implemented and
for 296 days after CPOE deployment. Analysis showed that, after CPOE
was introduced, there were fewer incorrect dosage instructions on the
order (0.06 per cent compared with 2.3 per cent) and fewer missing dose
calculations (5.7 per cent compared with 18 per cent). The number of
errors in treatment plans did not differ significantly before or after
CPOE implementation.
CPOE was introduced as a result of a failure modes and effects analysis
of the paediatric chemotherapy process. Features that the authors suspect
reduce the likelihood of error are that it automates dose calculation,
reduces hand-written orders, encourages prescribers to complete all data
fields and reduces the amount of information prescribers need to memorise.
The authors point out that the consequences of any errors made can be
serious because of the narrow therapeutic profile and high potential
for acute and cumulative toxicities of cancer drugs. The research appears
in Archives of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine (2006;160:495-8).
|
Hospital Pharmacist