Computerised provider order entry combined with clinical decision support systems to improve medication safety

BACKGROUND: Adverse drug events (ADEs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized and ambulatory patients. It is expected that (CPOE) combined with (CDSS) will reduce the morbidity and mortality rate in a clinical setting.

METHODS: The author conducted a systematic review of literature containing the combination of CPOE and CDSS in a clinical setting. The author used the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The articles measured cost, unintended consequences or specific implementations specific to CPOE and CDSS. These were gathered from both random and non-randomized control studies.

RESULTS: Included in the results were as follows. 5 systematic reviews Once narrative review Two controlled trials. In these trials it was shown that CPOE and CDSS combined may in fact reduce ADEs. Out of the 10 studies 9 where within the inpatient setting. It is to note that 5 shown a large indication of a positive influence on the reduction of ADE’s

CONCLUSIONS: To conclude CPOE and CDSS do provide data suggesting that through the proper use of them the reduction of ADE’s may occur. However, this analysis of this matter suggest as many others do that this topic still needs to be explored more.

Comments Through the proper use of technology we can reduce ADE’s and ultimately reduce the morbidity and mortality in a clinical setting. However, I agree that this topic should be covered more and actual studies should be conducted with more clinical studies set up and not simply reviewed. As the more data collected will provide further information and continue to confirm the general consciences.

==Important Articles== Original Article[1]