This paper presents the conception and implementation of a unit-dose study at a private hospital. The authors felt that although studies had been conducted at university hospitals, an organized study at a private hospital would be valuable. This study attempts to prove that many basic changes in the pharmacy and on the nursing unit are not necessary to a successful operation of a unit-dose drug distribution system. A description of the hospital, pharmacy department and study unit are presented. After the concept was presented to administration, procedures were written and the nursing staff was oriented. Packaging equipment for solids, liquids and injectables is discussed. Minor physical adaptations of present facilities were made. Forms and records for the study system were developed. An industrial engineering firm was hired to set protocol and aid in collecting data. Flow charts of both systems were developed to aid in the study. After preliminary decisions concerning number of deliveries and prn medications, the experimental system was instituted. A complete description of the system is presented. Work reporting data involving the pharmacists’ activities are presented, and problems encountered in the study are discussed.