Medical Error Reduction and PDAs

Numerous studies have revealed that medical errors are responsible for tremendous patient suffering, loss of life, and billions of dollars in costs. Research also suggests that children are at much higher risk of these errors than adults. New information technologies, particularly personal digital assistants (PDAs), are able to provide readily accessible medical information at the point-of-care. Although definitive studies are still necessary, the bedside use of these portable electronic devices, equipped with relevant, reliable and accurate drug, medical reference and calculator software, can help reduce the prevalence of medical errors, particularly for children. Int Pediatr. 2003;18(2):69-77.