Automated Dispensing Cabinets Can Help or Hinder Patient Safety Based On the Implementation of Safeguard Strategies

Automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs), also known as automated distribution devices or automated dispensing machines, were first introduced in hospitals in the 1980s and function as an electronic point-of-care storage device for medication distribution.1-5 Varying levels of decentralized drug distribution can be accomplished using an ADC, including in outpatient areas, such as the emergency department.6-8 ADC functionality has advanced over the years, providing the potential for safety advantages compared with nonautomated storage options, such as reduced medication selection errors, enhanced efficiency among nursing and pharmacy disciplines, and the ability to monitor inventory and deter drug diversion by way of accurate medication tracking and record keeping.
Source: Journal of Emergency Nursing: JEN - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Danger Zone Source Type: research