Computer-related medication errors in neonatal intensive care units

Clin Perinatol. 2008 Mar;35(1):119-39, ix. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2007.11.005.

Abstract

Iatrogenic medication errors in the neonatal ICU (NICU) are reported to occur up to 2.6 times per 100 NICU days. It has been learned during the last decade that well-intended but faulty implementations of technology can increase the frequency of errors and also can give rise to new types. This article compares and discusses iatrogenic medication errors in the NICU that are related to computer entry and computerized physician order entry systems. The authors also propose a possible approach for evaluating technology that is intended to prevent iatrogenic mediation errors in the NICU.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Databases, Factual
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Drug Prescriptions
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease / prevention & control
  • Intensive Care, Neonatal*
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Order Entry Systems*
  • Medication Errors* / prevention & control
  • Medication Systems