5PSQ-091 Facilitators and barriers in utilising barcode technology in drug preparation and administration – a focus group study for ward pharmacists

<h3>Background and Importance</h3> Barcoding technologies are widely used in hospitals to support safe medication management and use processes. Although these technologies are considered effective in making system-wide improvements, implementing them has several challenges. Research on the implementation and usability of barcoding has primarily centred on adult populations and other healthcare professionals rather than on hospital pharmacists. <h3>Aim and Objectives</h3> This study aimed to examine pharmacists’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to using barcode technologies supporting safe drug preparation and administration in a paediatric hospital setting. <h3>Material and Methods</h3> A qualitative focus group study was conducted following the COREQ (Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research) checklist. Fourteen ward pharmacists working in the paediatric department of a university hospital were chosen for three focus groups using purposive sampling to identify individuals who regularly use barcoding. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two researchers independently conducted inductive content analysis, which was later thoroughly reviewed by the entire research group. <h3>Results</h3> The data revealed four main themes: barriers, at-risk behaviour resulting from barriers, facilitators, and development ideas. The barriers included challenges related to negative attitudes, drug barcodes, use of the electronic health record system, workstations and equipment, as well as organisational factors. These barriers caused at-risk behaviour arising from the system or the end-user. On the other hand, the facilitators were associated with the positive experience of end-users, increased expertise and teamwork, the supporting functions of the electronic health record system, as well as the benefits of the barcode technology. The development ideas aimed to remove the barriers and the at-risk behaviour. <h3>Conclusion and Relevance</h3> A variety of factors can impact the potential of barcoding technologies to improve medication safety in paediatric hospital settings. Hospital pharmacists play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of barcode technology and improving its usability. Our research findings can be used to guide risk management efforts related to barcoding technologies in hospital environments. <h3>References and/or Acknowledgements</h3> <h3>Conflict of Interest</h3> No conflict of interest