What are your thoughts? Technology and How It Improves Patient Safety The employment of information processing in retrieving, dissemination, and utilization of information and knowledge about healthcare is vital in ensuring the improvement of the patient experience. Information technologies utilized in the health sector vary from simplified charts to more diversified technology.
Technology has become increasingly crucial in improving patient safety in the healthcare industry. Various information technologies are used to retrieve, disseminate, and utilize healthcare information and knowledge, ultimately enhancing the patient experience. These technologies range from simple charts to more advanced and diversified systems.
Patient safety is a top priority in healthcare. Medical errors can have detrimental consequences, leading to patient harm or even death. It is estimated that medical errors are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality rates worldwide (James, 2013). Therefore, finding effective ways to improve patient safety is of utmost importance.
One way technology improves patient safety is through the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs allow healthcare providers to access a patient’s complete medical history, including previous diagnoses, medications, and allergies, from any location. This comprehensive accessibility prevents mistakes caused by incomplete or inaccurate patient information.
For example, without an EHR, a healthcare provider may prescribe a medication that the patient is allergic to, leading to an adverse reaction. However, with an EHR, the provider can quickly retrieve that information and avoid potential harm to the patient. Moreover, EHRs improve communication among healthcare providers, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication that can result in errors.
Another important technology in improving patient safety is the use of barcode medication administration (BCMA) systems. BCMA systems use barcode scanning technology at the point of medication administration to ensure accurate medication administration and patient identification. When a medication is scanned, it is cross-referenced with the patient’s EHR to verify the correct medication, dose, and route of administration.
BCMA systems significantly reduce medication errors, such as administering the wrong medication or the wrong dose. They also help prevent medication errors that can occur due to patient misidentification. By using BCMA systems, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the right medication, in the correct dosage, at the appropriate time.
Another key technology that improves patient safety is computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems. CPOE systems allow healthcare providers to enter medication orders directly into a computer system, eliminating the need for handwritten paper prescriptions. Handwriting can be difficult to read and interpret, leading to medication errors. With CPOE, healthcare providers can select medications directly from a computerized database, reducing the risk of errors caused by illegible or misunderstood prescriptions.
Furthermore, CPOE systems incorporate built-in error checking mechanisms. For example, if a healthcare provider tries to order a medication dosage that exceeds the recommended limit for a specific patient, the system will alert the provider to this potential error. This proactive feedback helps prevent medication errors and contributes to patient safety.
Additionally, technology plays a vital role in ensuring the safe storage and management of medical information. Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are used to store and retrieve medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, digitally. By digitizing these images, healthcare providers can easily access and share them, enhancing collaboration and reducing the risk of misplacing or losing important images. PACS also provide advanced image analysis tools, enabling healthcare providers to identify abnormalities with greater accuracy.
Furthermore, technology enables the use of decision support systems (DSS) in healthcare. DSS use algorithms and evidence-based guidelines to assist healthcare providers in making informed clinical decisions. These systems can provide alerts and reminders, suggesting appropriate diagnostic tests or treatment options based on a patient’s specific condition.
In conclusion, technology has revolutionized patient safety in healthcare. The use of electronic health records, barcode medication administration systems, computerized physician order entry systems, picture archiving and communication systems, and decision support systems all contribute to improving patient safety by preventing medical errors and enhancing the overall quality of care. Healthcare organizations should continue to adopt and utilize these technologies to ensure the highest standard of patient safety.