Computerized Checking System for Powder Drug Dispensing Utilizing Data from Prescription Order Entry System

Abstract

A computerized support system for dispensing powder drugs was developed in connection with the prescription order entry system already in operation. This system incorporates three functions: verification of dispensing of powders, checking of refilling of powders into their stock bottles, and controlling powder dividing. During powder dispensing, the system is capable of collating the stock bottle powders with the prescribed powders, and of collating the amount of powders weighted by the pharmacist with that prescribed by the physician. When the name and amount of powders dispensed match those of the powders prescribed, the pharmacist can then dispense the next prescription. At refilling of powders into their respective stock bottles, the system which then permits the pharmacist to refill the stock bottle powders ensures the matching of the stock bottle with the original powder container. On dividing and packaging of powders using the powder divider, the system sets the diving number to powder divider, and the patient's name, prescription number and drug envelope number are printed on each unit-dose package. Checking this printed information enables the pharmacist to enclose correctly the unit-dose packages in their proper drug envelope. Since this on-line system facilitates all aspects of the powder dispensing process, we believe that it is particularly useful in preventing dispensing errors.