Illuminate
The Quality Digest
August 2022 Edition
August 7, 2022
Clinical News
Lorazepam Injection Drug Shortage
A national supply disruption has caused an interruption in the dependable availability of lorazepam injection products – a benzodiazepine used for status epilepticus and as a pre-op medication for the relief of anxiety and tension.
Successful Treatment of Stage II and III Rectal Cancer with Dostarlimab
A small group of patients with locally advanced, mismatch repair-deficient rectal cancer showed a complete response to dostarlimab and have not required further treatment.
Paxlovid Clinical Refresher to Minimize Med Errors
Check out this updated guide on the use of Paxlovid to treat people with mild to moderate Covid symptoms.
PharMerica’s Inaugural Opioid Stewardship Program (OSP) Now Available
Promote optimal pain management practices and judicious opioid stewardship in your facility with this comprehensive toolkit and implementation guide. The program outlines the core elements of medication stewardship and provides a stepwise process for adopting opioid stewardship practices, with sample leadership statements, policies & procedures, educational materials, and more. Contact your Account Manager for more information today!
Did You Know?
Fact sheets and instructions for easy reference by clinical staff
Check out our quick reference tools on insulin products:
- Insulin Drug Chart 2022
- Insulins and Low Temperature Excursions
- Insulin Pens vs Vials – Clinical Considerations
- Mixing Insulins – Compatibility
- Pre-filled Insulin Pen Devices – Appropriate Use
- Regular U-500 Insulin – A High Alert Medicine
Regulatory Updates
CMS Updates Released
Phase 3 of the Mega Rule is being implemented October 24, 2022. Here’s a reminder of what your facility needs to know to comply with the pharmacy-related requirements.
Upcoming Events
All Aboard! Staying on Track to Optimize Psychotropic Medications
Wednesday, August 3 at 1PM ET / 12PM CT
Presented by:
- Matthew J Palmer, BS, PharmD, BCGP, Manager of Clinical Operations, PharMerica
- Nena Hart MSN, RN, CHPN, RAC-CT, C-DONA
Episode 7: More MDS Coordinators are walking the floor. Is that a costly mistake?