OSE_1303_part2_Layout 1 2/7/13 4:28 PM Page 103
P A I N
M A N A G E M E N T
4. Double-check the details. Two providers should independently
review, verify and confirm the following: patient ID; allergies appearing
on the medication administration record; drug selection and concentration; completion of any necessary dose adjustments; the PCA
pump's settings; and the integrity of the catheter inserted into the
patient and the tubing connection to the pump. Empower all providers
to speak up if they spot an inconsistency.
5. In your facility, monitor the patient with both pulse oximetry and
capnography.
6. Assess and document the patient's condition before post-surgical
discharge.
— Michael Wong, JD
Mr. Wong (mwong@ppahs.org) is the founder and executive director of
the Physician-Patient Alliance for Health & Safety, a founding member of
the American Board of Patient Safety and a member of the Journal of
Patient Compliance editorial board.
Association of Nurse Anesthetists.
"First, access to the medications you need," she says. "Drug shortages have had a severe effect, and the compounding pharmacies that
fill your pumps may have access that you don't have." Second, patient
safety. "Any time you're preparing precise amounts, there's the potential for error. There's also the issue of sterility." Of course, "not all compounding pharmacies are equal," so be sure to determine that the one
you'll depend on for your pumps is high-quality and complies with all
safety regulations.
F E B R U A R Y 2013 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
1 0 3
