The Impact of Computerized Provider Order Entry Systems on Inpatient Clinical Workflow: A Literature Review
- Zahra Niazkhani, MD, MS,
- Habibollah Pirnejad, MD, MS, PhD,
- Marc Berg, MD, MA, PhD,
- Jos Aarts, PhD
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: Zahra Niazkhani, MD, MS, Institute of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 1738, 3000 DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; e-mail: <z.niazkhani{at}erasmusmc.nl>.
- Received 27 February 2007
- Accepted 25 March 2009
Abstract
Previous studies have shown the importance of workflow issues in the implementation of CPOE systems and patient safety practices. To understand the impact of CPOE on clinical workflow, we developed a conceptual framework and conducted a literature search for CPOE evaluations between 1990 and June 2007. Fifty-one publications were identified that disclosed mixed effects of CPOE systems. Among the frequently reported workflow advantages were the legible orders, remote accessibility of the systems, and the shorter order turnaround times. Among the frequently reported disadvantages were the time-consuming and problematic user-system interactions, and the enforcement of a predefined relationship between clinical tasks and between providers. Regarding the diversity of findings in the literature, we conclude that more multi-method research is needed to explore CPOE's multidimensional and collective impact on especially collaborative workflow.
Footnotes
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↵a Among these publications, the titles were evaluated to decide whether or not to include them in the detailed review.
