A Computer-based Module for Prescribing Error Instruction

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 5 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.

Using Simulation to Improve First-Year Pharmacy Students’ Ability to Identify Medication Errors Involving the Top 100 Prescription Medications

“…The logistical and financial burden of creating additional checking stations may be minimized with the use of product pictures or online programs. 2,14 Online programs could additionally be used to supplement scheduled curricular activities by providing extra practice exercises for students to complete on their own time.…”

“…12,13 Furthermore, students' awareness of their role in preventing medication errors increased as a result of taking the medication safety laboratory sessions. 13 Computer-based modules 2,3,14 and "mock pharmacy" 12 techniques have also been identified as modes to further enhance active learning.…”

The Use of Virtual Laboratories and Other Web-based Tools in a Drug Assay Course

“…11 Computer-based modules proved effective in teaching pharmacy students to identify and correct prescription errors. 12 Use of computer-assisted medicinal chemistry case study modules helped students better understand how to evaluate structure activity relationship findings in relation to desired therapeutic outcomes and addressing therapeutic problems in a clinical setting. 13 Another study found that using Web-based prescription simulations that depicted different scenarios relating to pharmacy practice in a hospital setting or community setting assisted the learning process for students in a practice skills laboratory course.…”

Educational Testing and Validity of Conclusions in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

“…An example of reporting an effect size can be seen in a study evaluating a prescribing error module. 36 In this study, the researchers compared 2 groups on 3 worksheets and noted a large effect of 0.85 associated with a significant difference on 1 of the worksheets.…”