Identifying Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) Medication Errors

Computerized provider order entry (CPOE) can help reduce the occurrence of medication errors. In Saudi Arabia, CPOE has been implemented for years, with a small number of studies evaluating the impacts of CPOE on medication errors. This study was conducted through the review of reported medication and prescribing errors at one of tertiary hospital, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2012. Data was reviewed and evaluated to identify and analyze all drug prescribing errors and subsequently exploring factors that have contributed to the identification of the drug prescribing errors by the dispensing pharmacists. Recommendations on developing policies and procedures, working in a safe environment, healthcare provider awareness, and improved technology to reduce medication errors in Saudi Arabia are discussed.