The Journal of medical practice management : MPM
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Medication errors represent one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Anesthesia has specific medication-related risks; providers must administer many potent intravenous medications quickly, often with minimal to no supervision. ⋯ Emphasis should be placed on implementing forcing functions when possible, utilizing technology, standardization, and education about the need for awareness in specific situations. More studies need to be done to define the epidemiology of medication errors in anesthesia, and more importantly, to assess interventions for preventing them.
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Operative sterility is a critical factor with regard to infection in the postoperative period. In recent years, techniques and devices have been developed to reduce the potential for exposure to pathogens. ⋯ The SteriCup provides a designated sterile area to store suction catheters and removed endotracheal tubes and allows for their simple and safe disposal. Devices such as the SteriCup have the potential to improve operating room systems and minimize potential for operative infection.