Using QR Code Technology to Reduce Self-Administered Medication Errors

Data indicate there are tens of thousands of self-administered medication errors each year in the United States alone.

The aim of this study was to determine whether information embedded in Quick Response (QR) codes could reduce self-administered medication errors compared to current medication labeling among older and younger age groups.

Two population samples (Arizona State University undergraduates and senior citizens over 70; n = 55) were recruited for participation. Participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: one with access to QR code-based information (graphic and text) and a second group with only bottle label information. Participants were allowed 30 minutes to answer 17 scenario-based questions about administering their medications.

Statistically significant main effects of more correct answers when using QR code than current bottle labeling, F _{1, 51} = 181.57, P < .001, η² = 0.78, and for younger adults compared to older, F _{1, 51} = 24.4, P < .001, η² = 0.33.

The study supports the use of QR code technology to increase patient safety of self-administered medications in both older and younger age groups. Future research is needed to address the technological and usability aspects of implementation (eg, phone app, voice, graphic, and text presentation).