Pyxis PARx: “The Pyxis PARx® system automates the pick-check-delivery process to provide increased security during medication replenishment throughout the hospital. The system utilizes bar code scanning technology for real-time tracking and monitoring of medication handling, pharmacist review and delivery of medications. By providing a complete chain-of-custody on medications during distribution to the nursing unit and helping to ensure the right medication is getting to the right station and the right pocket in the station, the Pyxis PARx® system is a valuable technology that provides improved patient safety and supports compliance with Joint Commission requirements.“
We utilize PARx in combination with our AutoPharm/AutoCarousel system. During Pyxis replenishment the carousel generates a label for each medication, which is attached via rubber-band or placed on a baggie containing the medication for the pharmacist to check. The label contains a PARx barcode (image left). When loading the medication into the Pyxis med station the technician scans the barcode on the label and the drawer with appropriate cubbie is automatically opened. If the medication attached to the label is correct, there is virtually zero chance for an incorrect fill. Our data has confirmed this. Since implementation of PARx in combination with AutoPharm/AutoCarousel in March of 2008 our Pyxis fill error rate has dropped off the map. In fact, the few occurrences we have had can be traced back to a “work around” of the system. In other words, it’s working like a charm. The one recommendation I have for Pyxis is to allow for scanning of the medication barcode in leu of the PARx barcode. Scanning the label creates an additional step and introduces an opportunity for error (i.e. wrong label attached to the drug). Pyxis says that it’s not possible due to the number of medications on the market, but I say it is possible because our entire barcode database resides in the AutoPharm formulary.
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