A computer-based module for prescribing error instruction

Am J Pharm Educ. 2009 Oct 1;73(6):101. doi: 10.5688/aj7306101.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate an instructional module's effectiveness at changing third-year doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students' ability to identify and correct prescribing errors.

Design: Students were randomized into 2 groups. Using a computer-based module, group 1 completed worksheet A, watched a presentation on medication errors, and then completed worksheets B and C. Group 2 completed worksheets A and B, watched the presentation, and then completed worksheet C.

Assessment: Both groups scored a median 50% on worksheet A and 66.7% on worksheet C (p < 0.001). Median scores on worksheet B differed between groups (p = 0.0014). Group 1 viewed the presentation before completing worksheet B and scored 62.5%, while group 2 viewed the presentation after scoring 50% on worksheet B.

Conclusion: The module effectively taught pharmacy students to identify and correct prescribing errors.

Keywords: computer-assisted instruction; computer-based learning; medication errors; prescribing errors.

MeSH terms

  • Computer-Assisted Instruction*
  • Curriculum*
  • Education, Pharmacy / methods*
  • Educational Measurement
  • Humans
  • Medication Errors / prevention & control*
  • Students, Pharmacy*
  • User-Computer Interface*