Exploring an Introduction to Electronic Medical Record–Based Assessment of Medication Orders Among Novice Student Pharmacists

Abstract

Objective

To pilot an electronic medical records (EMRs) simulation activity that incorporates a medication verification process, aimed at exploring novice learners’ interactions with the system, as well as their perceptions and confidence in verifying medication orders.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted using a simulated EMR platform, MyDispense. The study consisted of 5 medication orders, where students were asked to either select “verify” or “reject” each order. The activity was piloted by 390 second-year students across Australia and Malaysia. Verification actions and common mistakes were exported from MyDispense. Student perception and confidence data were collected using pre and postsurveys. An expert panel reviewed the data and suggested a scaffolded curriculum.

Results

The majority of students (80.5%–94.4% across cases) correctly selected the appropriate medication verification option. Common mistakes included incorrect selections on the issues for review form, such as specifying incorrect medication duration and indication. When orders were pitched to be clinically gray but safe to administer, novice learners showed a preference for rejection. Preactivity survey responses totaled 277, and postactivity responses were 261. There was a statistically significant increase in perceived confidence, with scores rising from 3 to 4 on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating improved confidence in EMR medication verification. A scaffolded curriculum incorporating milestones of experiential placements was recommended.

Conclusion

While students’ perceived confidence in medication verification increased overall, the study highlighted a potential need for educators to prepare students for clinical documentation and discussions by encouraging them to log interventions and partake in conversations with the prescribing team outside of the electronic verification process.