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The introduction of electronic medication charts and prescribing in aged care facilities: An evaluation
Author(s) -
Burns Pippa,
Perkins David A,
Larsen Karen,
Dalley Andrew
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
australasian journal on ageing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.63
H-Index - 34
eISSN - 1741-6612
pISSN - 1440-6381
DOI - 10.1111/j.1741-6612.2007.00237.x
Subject(s) - usability , medical prescription , chart , clarity , test (biology) , medicine , work (physics) , medical emergency , nursing , computer science , engineering , mechanical engineering , paleontology , biochemistry , statistics , chemistry , mathematics , human–computer interaction , biology
The objective was to test the feasibility of electronic medication charts in aged care facilities and the impact on general practitioner (GP) and staff work processes. The Illawarra Division of General Practice conducted a trial where GPs used a modified version of commercially available software to generate medication charts, in four residential aged care facilities. Semistructured, face‐to‐face interviews, log books and an issue register were used to evaluate the success of this trial.The system improved chart clarity, which was felt to have improved medication management accuracy. However, system usability was hindered by the location of the computer, the availability of prescription paper, and technical difficulties. The system is inexpensive and three facilities have continued to use it after the trial period.To show measurable improvements in medication management, a trial that includes all residents is needed.Aged care facilities need more computer equipment in order to adopt important innovations.