Unlocking Enhanced Patient Safety and Healthcare Efficiency: How Pharmacists Are Paving the Way

Pharmacists are essential in ensuring patient safety and improving healthcare. They tackle medication errors, help reduce costs, and assist in managing complex treatments. Their work leads to better treatment outcomes and more efficient care delivery.

One case discussed by Kwang Yoon, PharmD, and colleagues involves a 50-year-old man who received a high dose of intravenous epinephrine instead of the intended lower dose. This mistake led to chest pain and abnormal heart readings. Thankfully, the patient improved after receiving fluids and left the hospital once stabilized. This case shows the potential dangers of epinephrine overdoses and highlights the importance of safeguards like using prefilled auto-injectors to prevent dosing mistakes.

Another report by Miranda Beaudoin Rampone, PharmD, and her team highlights the positive impact of an infusion and specialty clinical pharmacist (ISCP) at a Veterans Affairs (VA) health system. They achieved projected savings of over $1.3 million annually by simplifying medication regimens and optimizing doses. High satisfaction rates were noted among both veterans and healthcare providers, underlining the valuable role ISCPs play in improving care and efficiency in both VA and private healthcare settings.

In another case, Jordan Krumanocker, PharmD, and Geena Eglin, PharmD, reported an infusion reaction experienced by a 61-year-old woman during her first home treatment with evinacumab-dgnb, a new drug for high cholesterol. After her heart rate and blood pressure dropped, the treatment was halted, and emergency care was given. This scenario raises safety concerns with the new drug, pointing out the need for further research on potential infusion reactions.

These cases illustrate how pharmacists significantly enhance patient care, cut costs, and address important safety issues. Their diverse roles in managing medication errors and facilitating complex therapies highlight their crucial position in the ever-changing healthcare landscape.