Preventing Forgetting to Resume Temporary Medication After Observation Using Robotic Process Automation and Data Warehouse

Abstract

Temporary discontinuation of antithrombotic drugs during the perioperative period is crucial but carries the risk of forgetting to resume administration. To achieve continuous and efficient medication management, we developed a temporary discontinuation medication resumption confirmation process using Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Data Warehouse (DWH). From April 2021 to March 2022, out of 1,147 cases of temporary discontinuation (990 resumptions and 157 terminations), there were no instances where instructions for resuming or terminating the medication were missed. There were no significant incidents or accidents associated with temporary discontinuation. All 56 cases (4.9％) that exceeded the scheduled resumption date were confirmed by pharmacists. The utilization of RPA and DWH for the continuous and efficient resumption of temporary discontinuation of medication enables the collaborative management of complex medication instructions during the increasingly complex perioperative period across multiple professions and departments. This approach contributes to safe and effective treatment practices, minimizing the risk of medication omission and enhancing patient safety during the perioperative period.