Different drug distribution systems are employed in hospitals to optimize medication management.
The choice of system depends on factors like hospital size, resources, and patient needs.
1. Individual Prescription Order System:
Process:
Medications are dispensed upon receipt of individual prescriptions for each patient.
Advantages:
Personalized medication management.
Reduced medication waste.
Disadvantages:
Time-consuming for pharmacy staff.
Increased potential for errors due to manual processes.
2. Floor Stock System:
Process:
Common medications are stored in bulk on nursing units, allowing nurses to access and administer as needed.
Advantages:
Immediate availability of medications.
Reduced pharmacy workload for dispensing.
Disadvantages:
Higher risk of medication errors and drug diversion.
Challenges in inventory control and expiration management.
3.Unit Dose System:
Process:
Medications are dispensed in single-dose packages, each labeled for a specific patient and administration time.
Advantages:
Enhanced patient safety by reducing medication errors.
Improved inventory control and reduced waste.
Disadvantages:
Increased initial setup costs.
Requires more pharmacy resources for packaging and labeling.
4. Automated Dispensing Cabinets (ADCs):
Process:
Electronic drug storage devices located on nursing units dispense medications upon authorized access.
Advantages:
Immediate access to medications.
Enhanced security and tracking of medication use.
Disadvantages:
High initial investment and maintenance costs.
Requires staff training and adherence to protocols.
5. Centralized vs. Decentralized Systems (Drug Distribution Systems):
Centralized Pharmacy:
All dispensing occurs from the main pharmacy.
Advantages: Consolidated control, standardized procedures.
Disadvantages: Potential delays in medication delivery.
Decentralized Pharmacy:
Satellite pharmacies located throughout the hospital.
Advantages: Faster delivery, improved communication with clinical staff.
Disadvantages: Increased staffing and operational costs.