Summary
Objective: To identify and summarize the requirements of an optimized CPOE application for pediatric
intensive care.
Methods: We analyzed the medication process and its documentation in the pediatric and neonatal
intensive care units (PICU/NICU) of two university hospitals using workflow analysis
techniques, with the aim of implementing computer-supported physician order entry
(CPOE).
Results: In both PICU/NICU, we identified similar processes that differed considerably from
adult medication routine. For example, both PICU/NICU prepare IV pump syringes on
the ward, but receive individualized ready-to-use mixed IV bags for each patient from
the hospital pharmacy on the basis of a daily order. For drug dose calculation, both
PICU/NICU employ electronic calculation tools that are either incorporated within
the CPOE system, or are external modules invoked via interface.
Conclusion: On the basis of this analysis, we provide suggestions to optimize CPOE applications
for use in the pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit in the form of three catalogues
of desiderata for drug order entry support.
Keywords
Inpatient - inpatient CPOE - critical care and emergency - pediatrics - neonatology
- clinical documentation and communications - requirements analysis and design - intensive
care - workflow