Module 4: Therapeutics

Lesson 3

In-patient prescriptions

In general, an order in an institution for CDS must contain the following elements:

• Patient addressograph (name, address, date of birth, institution/HN)
• Date
• Generic medication name
• Dose
• Route
• Frequency
• Indication for use if PRN dosing
• Prescriber signature and printed name (or electronic signature in EMR)
• Prescriber contact number

In addition to engaging in patient education, the prescriber may also consider collaborating with institutional nursing and pharmacy staff to ensure that all team members understand the intent of the prescription.