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Computer-based program for identifying medication orders requiring dosage modification based on renal function
D E Goldberg1, G Baardsgaard, M T Johnson
1Diversified Pharmaceutical Services, University of Minnesota (UM), Minneapolis 55440-8001.
American Journal of Hospital Pharmacy
|September 1, 1991
Summary
A new computer program helps pharmacists rapidly review medication orders for patients with kidney problems. This system improves medication safety, reduces costs, and enhances clinical pharmacy practice by flagging potentially inappropriate drug dosages.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Health Informatics
- Pharmacokinetics
Background:
- Pharmacist intervention programs identify medication orders needing dosage adjustment for renally impaired patients.
- Staff pharmacists faced challenges in rapidly assessing these orders due to limited patient data access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a computer-based program designed to assist staff pharmacists in reviewing medication orders for renally impaired patients.
- To enhance the efficiency and accuracy of identifying and modifying drug dosages based on renal function.
Main Methods:
- A computer program was developed with specific dosage guidelines for renally eliminated drugs.
- The system interfaces with laboratory computers to access patient creatinine levels and calculate renal clearance.
- Medication orders requiring dosage modification are flagged by the pharmacy computer during order entry.
Main Results:
- Over two months, 1485 potentially inappropriate orders were identified.
- Pharmacist recommendations were accepted for 74% of contacted physicians (141 out of 191 orders).
- Interventions led to a drug acquisition cost saving of $7082 within the two-month period.
Conclusions:
- The computer-based program enables efficient identification of medication orders needing renal dosage adjustment.
- Implementation reduced the risk of adverse drug reactions and decreased medication costs.
- The system supports and promotes the clinical role of pharmacy practice.