TPP implements Tall Man functionality from First Databank (FDB)

TPP is delighted to announce that they will be introducing Tall Man functionality from First Databank (FDB). The Institute for Safe Medical Practice (ISMP) maintains a list of look-alike-sound-alike (LASA) drug names which can lead to confusion at the point of prescribing and medication errors. Tall Man capitalises the similar parts of the word to clearly differentiate between similar sounding drugs.

An example would be; hydrOXYZINE and hydrALAZINE

This functionality will be gradually rolled out across SystmOne in the coming weeks, and initially available via a ‘user preference’ within the system. The change results in the capitalisation showing on the Drug and Appliance browser.

FDB has incorporated Tall Man Lettering (TML) into its Multilex CDS solution to enhance patient safety by supporting prescribers in making accurate medication selection. FDB has worked closely with its vendor partners and other representative organisations to inform and guide how this approach should be implemented. Tall Man Lettering (TML) has been recommended by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) in the US for some time, and as it is also considered good practice in the UK, FDB has incorporated TML into its Multilex CDS solution. This has ensured that FDB are able to support clinicians and clinical systems to continue to enhance patient safety by supporting prescribers in making accurate medication selection.

Dan Newman, Clinical Safety Officer at FDB commented, “We know a number of drugs in different therapeutic areas that have similar names to each other, and these similar names can be easily confused when typed by clinical users within a busy environment. It is generally accepted that highlighting part of the name draws attention to the problem and therefore encourages an extra detailed check of the label or prescription.”

TPP’s Clinical Director and Safety Officer, Dr John Parry feels ‘pleased that this additional safety feature has been added to SystmOne. All reductions in errors are to be welcomed!