Computer-based system for adverse drug reaction detection and prevention.

An online computer-based system for monitoring patients for potential adverse drug reactions during their hospital stay is described. The adverse drug reaction monitoring system uses a Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) PDP-11 computer which is programmed in MUMPS (Masschusetts General Hospital Utility Multi-programming System). Primary references from the medical and scientific literature are analyzed and evaluated before being included in the data base. The patient's adverse reaction history, obtained by nursing personnel during a patient interview, is entered into the computer by pharmacy staff. The computer screens new prescription orders for potential adverse reactions; any adverse reaction reports are sent to the patient's physician. Other special programs that are used in the patient monitoring system include medication profiles, drug-drug interaction screening and prescription discontinuation date entry. The computer system enable detection of potential adverse drug reaction and notification of the patient's physician prior to administration of the prescribed drug.