Managing the implementation of a pharmacy computer system.

The process of managing the implementation of a pharmacy computer system is described. The three major phases of an implementation plan are (1) orientation and testing, (2) training of personnel, and (3) operation and expansion. Testing procedures described include those for entering new medication orders, profile maintenance, printouts for unit dose cart dispensing, label and report generation, i.v. system orders, back-up system, special edit features, charge generation, and admission, discharge, and transfer status. Personnel training components described are orientation, formal and practical sessions, program development, and training manual development. Implementation programs described include parallel operations of manual and computer systems, limited independent operation, and expansion. Successful implementation of a pharmacy computer system depends on careful planning and coordination.