Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) is a digital system that allows healthcare providers to enter medication orders electronically, significantly reducing medication errors.

Why CPOE?

Eliminates handwriting-related errors from illegible prescriptions.

Ensures complete medication details before processing.

Often integrates with decision support tools to flag incorrect dosages and drug interactions.

B. Health Information Exchange (HIE): Facilitates data sharing between healthcare providers but does not focus on preventing medication errors.

C. Electronic Medical Record (EMR): Stores patient data but does not address prescription-related errors directly.

D. Clinical Decision Support (CDS): Assists providers in making clinical decisions but does not replace the ordering process like CPOE.

Why Not the Other Options?Thus, the correct answer is A. Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) because it directly prevents prescription errors caused by illegible handwriting or incomplete data.

Bates, D. W. et al. (1998). Effect of Computerized Physician Order Entry and a Team Intervention on Prevention of Serious Medication Errors.

Institute of Medicine (2000). To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System.

References in Ethics in Technology: