Authors (including presenting author) :
MAK FKW (1), SO EHK (2), CHAN SSP (3), KWOK SM (3), CHENG DCY (1), YUNG V (3), LEE PSF (3,) KWAN WSC (1), HUNG SYK (1)
Affiliation :
Department of Nursing, HKBH (1)
Department of Anaesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine & MDSSC, QEH (2)
Department of Anaesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, QEH (3)
Keyword 1: :
Dangerous Drug Management
Introduction :
Effective management of Dangerous Drugs (DD) is crucial for patient safety and compliance with Hong Kong’s Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. Traditional storage in key‑locked cabinets within operating theatres lacks adequate traceability and security, necessitating innovative solutions. To address these challenges, the Department of Anaesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine of QEH launched the DD Smart Cabinet project since 2022 with support of QEH senior OT nurses to test workflows, connectivity, and prototypes of this system. Phase I began at HKBH in 2025, incorporating refinements from local nursing input to strengthen usability and security. Phase II planned for QEH in 2026, This program aligns with Smart Hospital goals of safety, governance, and efficiency.
Objectives :
Enhance OT medication safety, governance, and efficiency through Smart Cabinet innovation, showcasing healthcare‑IT collaboration to deliver sustainable, cost‑effective solutions and model future Smart Hospital infrastructure.
Methodology :
Each operating theatre requires its own DD. Traditionally, these were kept in small boxes within double‑locked cabinets, with keys held by designated nurses, limiting traceability and efficiency. To address these shortcomings, the Smart Cabinet system adapted from logistics industry solutions, was introduced at the 63rd QEH Hospital Grand Round in March 2024. The HKBH OT nursing team refined the configuration to meet clinical needs, becoming the first OT in KCC to implement this tailor‑made program, with support from the HKBH Nursing Service Department. The system is consisted of multi‑compartment electronic cabinet with mini computer connected via HA Wi‑Fi. Key features include lockable compartments, real‑time alerts, pick‑by‑light dispensing, and personalized access via staff ID cards, supported by a two‑tier hierarchy for accountability. Centralized monitoring, automated reporting achieves closed-loop drug management and minimizes potential medication errors. Staff engagement, thorough training, and phased implementation ensured seamless workflow integration.
Result & Outcome :
Preliminary findings indicate the Smart Cabinet successfully mitigates human error and medication mismanagement strengthens DD security, and improves compliance. Real‑time tracking and audit functions minimize discrepancies, while keyless operation streamlines workflows and enhances efficiency. Costs are estimated at one‑fifth of vendor Automated Dispensing Cabinets, with added benefits of electronic data storage. Staff feedback highlights improved usability, reduced administrative burden, and greater confidence in handling DD. Planned enhancements include integration with pharmacy systems for expiry tracking and automated ledger documentation.
