Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

Which CPOE function is considered advanced functionality?

1. Order entry reviews

2. Drug-drug interaction checks

3. Patient identification verification

4. Medication reconciliation

The correct answer is: Drug-drug interaction checks

Drug-drug interaction checks are considered advanced functionality in Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) systems because they provide critical support for patient safety by identifying potential harmful interactions between prescribed medications before they are ordered. This functionality is essential in modern healthcare, as it enhances decision-making capabilities and aids in preventing adverse drug events. By analyzing the medications a patient is prescribed and checking them against known drug interactions, healthcare providers can make informed choices and avoid potentially dangerous combinations. In contrast, the other functions listed, while important, are typically viewed as more basic components of CPOE systems. Order entry reviews involve checking orders for completeness and clarity but do not specifically target safety in the same way. Patient identification verification is crucial for ensuring that orders are correctly matched to the right patient, but it does not directly address drug safety. Medication reconciliation is essential for ensuring that a patient's medication list is accurate and up to date, but it occurs typically at transitions of care and is more procedural than technologically advanced. Thus, drug-drug interaction checks stand out as a sophisticated feature that uses advanced algorithms and databases to significantly enhance patient care and safety.