The impact of introducing automated dispensing cabinets, barcode medication administration, and closed-loop electronic medication management systems on work processes and safety of controlled medications in hospitals: A systematic review

Technology in the form of Automated Dispensing Cabinets (ADCs), Barcode Medication Administration (BCMA), and closed-loop Electronic Management Systems (EMMS) are implemented hospitals to assist with supply, use monitoring medications. Although there is evidence suggest that these technologies can reduce errors improve medications general, little known about their impact on controlled such as opioids. This review aimed fill this knowledge gap by synthesising literature determine ADCs, BCMA EMMS clinical work processes, medication safety, drug diversion associated inpatient setting. Eight databases (Medline, Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Web Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ScienceDirect) were searched for relevant papers published between January 2000 May 2019. Qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods empirical studies English reported findings and/or setting included. In total, 16 met inclusion criteria. Eleven four BCMA, only one EMMS. Only focused medications, remainder reporting incidental findings. Studies elimination manual end-of-shift counts after ADC implementation but cases despite introducing ADCs. Three quantitative reductions implementing labelled wrong barcodes unreadable led confusion administration errors. More quality, targeted research needed provide benefits also risks technology safeguard against inappropriate Processes need be place supplement technological capabilities, resources should made available post-implementation evaluations interventions.