Impact of automated dispensing cabinets on medication selection and preparation error rates in an emergency department: A prospective and direct observational before-and-after study

Abstract

Rationale, aims and objectives The implementation of automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) in healthcare facilities appears to be increasing, in particular within Australian hospital emergency departments (EDs). While the investment in ADCs is on the increase, no studies have specifically investigated the impacts of ADCs on medication selection and preparation error rates in EDs. Our aim was to assess the impact of ADCs on medication selection and preparation error rates in an ED of a tertiary teaching hospital. Methods Pre intervention and post intervention study involving direct observations of nurses completing medication selection and preparation activities before and after the implementa..