A COMPARISON OF DRUG-INTERACTION SOFTWARE PROGRAMS - APPLICABILITY TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Study objective: To compare the features of available drug interaction software programs in terms of general applicability to an emergency department setting. Design: Prospective evaluation of drug interaction software programs based on presence or absence of a variety of performance features. Setting: University and community hospital EDs. Participants: Eight commercially available drug interaction software programs. Results: Programs were evaluated according to designated performance and data base features. Tabulated results were compiled for purposes of comparison. Conclusion: Although no computer program tested completely met the specific needs of a busy ED, many programs have features with at least some general applicability.