ABSTRACT
The implementation of a pharmacy computer system in a 190-bed institution is described. A computer system was instituted in the pharmacy department as part of a hospitalwide conversion to an online information system. Planning for implementation began nine months before the actual live date (date of full computerization). Problems in the existing distribution and record-keeping systems that might be eliminated by computerization were identified, and changes in the layout of the pharmacy and department procedures were initiated to prepare for computerization. The events leading to computerization are presented in chronological order, and the advantages and shortcomings of the system are discussed. Because of careful planning, the cooperation of all pharmacy staff members, and frequent assistance from the computer vender, the nine-month conversion to a computerized system proceeded smoothly.
Subject(s)
Computers , Pharmacy Service, Hospital/organization & administration , Hospital Bed Capacity, 100 to 299 , Humans , Injections, Intravenous , Kentucky , Medication Systems, Hospital , PharmacistsABSTRACT
The use of a microcomputer in a small-hospital pharmacy is discussed. In a 50-bed hospital, computerization of repetitive functions was achieved with a modest expense. This was done with standard and inexpensive programs and self-written software that ran on a microcomputer purchased for the pharmacy. Time savings were immediately produced, and other uses followed to allow better use of personnel. Brief descriptions of major types of software are also given. An inexpensive computer can be used to great advantage, even in very small hospitals and without expensive pharmacy-specific software.
