How does the clinical decision support function of the electronic health record improve patient outcomes?

The clinical decision support function of the electronic health record (EHR) enhances patient outcomes by alerting healthcare providers to patient allergies. This capability is crucial, as it directly impacts patient safety and care quality. When physicians or other healthcare professionals are alerted to a patient's known allergies during the prescribing process, it helps prevent adverse drug reactions and potential harm to the patient. This proactive measure ensures that healthcare providers have the necessary information at their fingertips, which supports better clinical decision-making. By reducing the risk of allergic reactions, the EHR not only improves patient safety but also leads to better overall health outcomes, as these alerts enable providers to choose alternative medications that do not pose a risk.