EHR-Based Approach for Reducing Medication Dosing Errors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests an electronic system designed to reduce mistakes when parents measure doses of liquid medications for their children. It uses electronic health records (EHRs) to guide pharmacies in labeling medications in milliliters and provides tools for accurate dose measurement. The goal is to determine if this EHR-based approach can help parents make fewer dosing errors and improve safety for children taking liquid medications. This trial suits English- or Spanish-speaking parents or guardians with a child under 8 years old prescribed liquid medicine from certain clinics in New York City, who will administer the medication. As an unphased trial, it offers a chance to contribute to innovative solutions that enhance medication safety for children.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on improving how liquid medications are dispensed and dosed, rather than changing existing medications.
What prior data suggests that this EHR-based approach is safe for reducing medication dosing errors?
Research shows that electronic health record (EHR) systems can enhance healthcare safety. For example, studies have found that EHRs help reduce medication errors and adverse drug events (ADEs). One study highlighted how digital tools in EHRs lowered medication errors.
However, not all results are positive. Some hospitals experienced more medication errors after implementing EHR systems. This suggests that the system's setup and usage can impact safety. Overall, while there is potential, results vary depending on EHR implementation.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the EHR-Based Approach for reducing medication dosing errors because it leverages technology to enhance patient safety. Unlike traditional methods where prescriptions are manually checked, this approach integrates directly with Electronic Health Records (EHR) to automatically ensure correct dosing. This method aims to minimize human error and streamline the prescription process, potentially leading to fewer mistakes and improved patient outcomes. By harnessing digital systems, this approach could revolutionize how medication errors are addressed in healthcare settings.
What evidence suggests that this EHR-based approach is effective for reducing medication dosing errors?
Research has shown that electronic health record (EHR) systems can enhance medication safety by reducing errors. Some studies found that EHR tools, when combined with digital technology, decrease harmful drug events and medication errors. Features like checklists and error reporting, often included in EHRs, help prevent complications and ensure correct medication doses. However, evidence also suggests that if not managed carefully, the initial implementation of EHRs might lead to more mistakes. This trial will compare the usual care approach before EHR implementation with the EHR-Based Approach post-implementation. Overall, EHR-based solutions have shown promise in improving pharmacy practices and reducing dosing errors.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
H. Shonna Yin, MD, MS
Principal Investigator
NYU Langone Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English or Spanish-speaking parents or guardians over 18 years old, who are the primary caregivers of children aged ≤8 years prescribed liquid medications in specific New York City hospitals. Participants must have a smartphone and be willing to participate. Pharmacists involved must dispense medication to study participants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-Implementation
Patient e-Rxs are generated by the EHR in the usual fashion
Post-Implementation
EHR generates e-Rxs with instructions for mL-only dosing and specific dosing tools
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for dosing errors and adherence to new dispensing practices
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- EHR-Based Approach
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
NYU Langone Health
Lead Sponsor
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Collaborator