An Anesthesiologist's View on Medication Security
Episode Overview
Medication security in operating rooms is crucial for patient safety. Collaboration between pharmacy and anesthesia providers enhances drug diversion prevention. Education on substance use disorder is vital for healthcare professionals. Real-time medication disposal verification can prevent improper drug-wasting behaviours. Production pressures can impact medication handling and safety protocols.
"It's one thing to be doing it in a controlled setting where the person who's administering it is not impaired."
What does medication security look like in the high-stakes environment of the operating room? In this intriguing episode of Drug Diversion Insights, host Terri Vidals invites Dr. Max Feinstein, a paediatric cardiac anaesthesiologist, to discuss the complex dynamics of medication security and diversion prevention in the operating room. Dr. Feinstein, who recently completed his fellowship at Columbia University, shares his experiences transitioning from residency to becoming an attending anesthesiologist. Throughout the episode, Dr.
Feinstein sheds light on the realities of managing controlled substances during surgeries. He discusses the importance of a robust chain of custody and the challenges faced by medical professionals in high-pressure environments like the OR. With a focus on collaboration between pharmacy and anesthesia providers, the discussion highlights the necessity of designing systems that protect both patients and healthcare workers.
Listeners gain a unique view into the often-hidden world of anesthesia practice, including how medication is handled in the operating room. Dr. Feinstein shares his journey from medical school to becoming an attending anesthesiologist, offering insights into the education around substance use disorders and the reality of drug diversion in healthcare settings. Dr. Max Feinstein's candid reflections underscore the importance of acknowledging the high-risk nature of operating rooms and the need for effective systems to prevent drug diversion.
His experiences shed light on how even well-intentioned professionals can face challenges when managing controlled substances. The conversation with host Terri Vidals also explores how collaboration between pharmacy and anesthesia providers can enhance patient safety and system design. As you listen to Dr. Feinstein's eye-opening account, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in maintaining medication security in an operating room environment. Are there practices in your field that could benefit from similar scrutiny and improvement?