J U N E 2 0 1 5 O U T P A T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T 5 5
a few of the essential elements of proper medication management.
• Drug security. Keeping agents out of the wrong hands is a growing concern. The
seriousness of this issue has prompted the Drug Enforcement Administration to
make major changes in regulations that deal with control and accountability of
narcotics. Healthcare facilities are at risk because of the ready access to con-
trolled substances in their ORs, during drug disposal and in recovery areas. In
order to safeguard themselves against diversion, they must have a monitoring
system in place that identifies any compromise in drug security. Facility leaders
must audit this system, but a consultant pharmacist can play a key role in over-
seeing the process.
• Minimize the risks of drug-related errors. One important step is to remind all staff
members to read labels multiple times before drugs are administered, because
many errors involve sound-alike and look-alike agents. Facilities must monitor
formularies for possible risks and provide staff with important information on
proper medication administration. In addition to preventative efforts, every
facility should have appropriate protocols in place to manage mistakes that do
occur, and ensure that error reporting is non-punitive and treated as a learning
opportunity.
• Dealing with drug shortages. Product recalls, changes in manufacturing produc-
tion levels, increases or decreases in demand and changes in FDA regulations
are just a few reasons these events happen. If they're not managed quickly and
correctly, shortages can be catastrophic to a surgical facility. The goal is to stay
ahead of any anticipated shortage. Each facility should develop a policy that
outlines steps to take when a medication is on shortage or potential shortage.
• Burdensome regulatory standards. Surgical facilities face a long list of pressing
