Abstract
Objectives
To determine the impact of a computerised physician order entry (CPOE) system on the drug‐related problems’ (DRPs) incidence and characteristics in hospitalised children in a Saudi hospital, and to compare DRPs incidence pre‐/post‐CPOE implementation.
Methods
An observational study. DRPs were identified by pharmacists, reviewing children's (0‐14 years) medical records on CPOE system, in paediatric wards and/or attending emergency department. DRPs preventability and severity were assessed.
Results
A total of 657 paediatric patients were included, with 235 (35.8%) experienced 328 DRPs, majority were preventable (99.7%, 327). Difference in DRP incidence pre‐ and post‐CPOE implementation (44.8% versus 35.8%, P < 0.01) was significant.
Conclusion
The CPOE system has significantly reduced DRPs incidence in children in the study hospital.