The Computerized Provider Order Entry with Decision Support SAFER Guide identifies recommended safety practices associated with the design, implementation, use, and monitoring of orders and clinical decision support (CDS). This includes order structure, mapping, libraries, alerts, and warnings that users rely on during patient care. This guide focuses on strategies for optimizing safety during clinical decision-making and order-entry processes.

Providers rely on EHR technology to help them navigate the complexities of patient care, including diagnosis and treatment. This requires accurate and reliable CPOE functionality, with navigable pick lists based on structured orders that are mapped to standard vocabularies to assure interoperability. CDS suggestions should be unambiguous and appropriate and should not generate excessive warnings or irrelevant alerts.