OSE_1303_part1_Layout 1 2/7/13 4:09 PM Page 30
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
that's why those duties should be the job of 1 person (2, max). It needn't be someone with a pharmacy background, but rather your most
OCD staff member. Stress to the individual and other staff that this
isn't a mindless duty, that it's not been assigned to let anyone off lightly — it's an important job with a big responsibility that requires good
documentation.
2
Look for red flags. Your intake person should inspect the packaging and drug vials for red flags. Don't just stop at whether the
shipping box is damaged. Inspect the inner packaging for damage.
Determine if drugs are discolored or if they contain particulate matter.
Look at the lot numbers — and keep a record of them. If you identify patient complications, the lot numbers will be invaluable. It's not
unusual to have the same lot numbers on the same delivery dates;
however, if you continue to receive the same lot numbers on subsequent deliveries, you may want to contact your distributor to mix the
lots. That may reduce the possibility that 1 lot, if contaminated, will
cause patient injury. Documenting and potentially questioning deliveries may go a long way if a recall situation arises.
3
Maintain superior documentation. Your intake person should maintain documentation to verify that each product arrived intact,
with no obvious discolorations or particulate matter. She should also
document that correct initial storage was completed, along with the
3 0
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 | F E B R U A R Y 2013
