Computerized Decision Support Systems (Cdss)

Technological solutions will continue to emerge as healthcare continues with efforts to improve safety and quality in all aspects healthcare delivery. Although there is evidence of benefits and improvements in care due implementing such systems, questions continue to arise. Much has been written illustrating the business case for the use of these products (CPOE, CDSS, EMR). To realize full benefit of any of these interventions implementation must be coupled with sufficient training and support, employed at all levels, easy to use, compliment existing tools and protocols within the institution and be just one part of a comprehensive Quality Improvement/Quality Care program.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends the highest standards for patient care. Healthcare environments should promote a culture of safety and establish a non-punitive reporting system to ensure an environment that is conducive to open communication.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends the following tools when prescribing, transcribing, dispensing, administering and monitoring patient medications: computerized physician order entry (CPOE); computerized decision support systems (CDSS); computerized monitoring of adverse drug events; pharmacist assisted rounds; high-risk drug protocols; and verbal order verification. These tools have significantly reduced medication errors, improved the quality of care and patient management capabilities, increased reimbursement, and have decreased billing time.

The following technologies will assist orthopaedic surgeons in preventing and reducing the incidence and severity of medication errors. Some tools may represent significant capital expenses for hospitals; however, others may be implemented with existing staff and procedures.

I.Prescribing

Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE)

CPOE enables the physician to order medications, tests, and procedures directly into the hospital computer system, thereby...