The Effects of Computerized Order Entry on Communication Between Pharmacy and Nursing

Abstract Computerized order entry systems are designed to improve communication between departments in the hospital. This study measures perceptions of clinical nurses using a medication order entry system concerning: (1) the frequency of spoken communication with pharmacy, (2) how well they know pharmacy personnel, and (3) a general evaluation of changes in communication between pharmacy and nursing as a result of the computer system. Findings indicated that a computer system will not necessarily reduce the frequency of spoken communication between departments, but does have the potential to foster communication and cooperation as the two departments maintain and use a common patient-specific database.