What does CPOE mean in COMPUTING

CPOE stands for Computerised Physician Order Entry. It is a technology used by healthcare institutions to electronically capture and process physician orders directly from the clinician's desktop.

CPOE eliminates errors associated with manual processing of orders, while facilitating rigorous order review to ensure patient safety and quality of care.

CPOE allows physicians to enter their orders into an electronic system that transmits them directly to the pharmacy or laboratory while providing real-time decision support based on medical guidelines, alerting clinicians of likely drug-drug interactions or other contraindications.

The benefits of using CPOE include improved patient safety, reduced costs due to fewer medication errors, improved efficiency of care practices through automated tracking and documenting progress notes, enhanced accessibility for healthcare workers in remote sites or those on call and better coordination amongst providers managing patient treatment plans.

Disadvantages associated with using CPOE include long implementation times as clinical teams may require additional training and support; cost implications concerning investment in hardware, software and personnel; resistance from medical staff members who may perceive it as an intrusion upon their practice; increased legal liability due to computer systems collecting data which can be used against them during court proceedings; decreases in bedside care when physicians rely too heavily on the computer system instead of direct contact with the patient; and potential privacy concerns if sensitive information is accessed incorrectly or inappropriately by others.