Does CPOE support nurse-physician communication in the medication order process? A nursing perspective

Introduction: The benefits of CPOE are many and have been recognised in the literature as important components for improving patient safety and clinician performance. However, there remain concerns about adverse effects CPOE systems may have on the medication order process and workflow processes. This study explores the perception of nurses regarding the CPOE support on nurse physician communication in the medication order process Methods: A survey was developed measuring perceptions of CPOE features on workflow and nurse physician communication on a Likert scale. Results: The majority of nurses felt that CPOE features supported the medication order process and perceived proper nurse physician communication. Conclusions: CPOE characteristics supported medication order processes and nurse physician communication although nurses reported additional work was required for follow up of physicians. Additional studies utilising in depth methods are recommended to fully understand medication order processes with further CPOE implementation.