Usability of Drug Packaging and Labeling: Design Research and Evaluation Methods

Abstract

Poor drug packaging and labeling contribute to 25% of reported medication errors. The efforts to improve this aspect of healthcare are non-trivial. User Centric has collaborated with pharmaceutical companies on a number of initiatives to increase patient safety and healthcare professionals' efficiency. This presentation will provide an overview of the different human factors methodologies we have used to evaluate and improve prescription drug labels for bottles, cartons, and IV bags, child-resistant containers, blister packs, and package inserts with instructions. The different approaches will be illustrated with examples from our studies with physicians, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, nurses, lab technicians, and patients.