[Assessing an automated dispensation system in the emergency department of a level III-hospital]. / Evaluación de un sistema automático de dispensación en el Servicio de Urgencias de un hospital de tercer nivel.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work was to describe and to assess an automated drug dispensing system in the emergency department of a level-III hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sequential implementation of PyxisA(R) commenced in July 2001 in a number of Emergency areas. The addition of a Medanalistâ system speeds up the evaluation of generated information. Analysed variables were classified as: a) logistic: workload distribution; b) financial: cost per emergency patient attended; c) number of pharmaceutical procedures. Statistical descriptors were analysed using the SPSS 10.0 software. RESULTS: 1. Logistic: increased workload in PD and decreased Emergency staff calls. 2. Financial: Consumption in the emergency department was reduced by 12% in 2001. In addition, the number of applications for drugs not included within the hospital formulary decreased. CONCLUSION: The main benefit of this system is the information it provides on drug use. However, the fact that this projectâs implementation increased workload in our department, and that a definitive set-up would require a pharmacy assistant staff member should be considered. Regarding this memberâs work, at least a half-day commitment during implementation stages would be needed to direct this change in mentality. Once the system is set up, time is needed to review and monitor previous day activities, and to analyse generated information monthly.