Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS): the pharmacist's role

Pharmacotherapy
Thomas W F ChinJanice Wells

Abstract

After two outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) occurred in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from March-June 2003, we reviewed the unexpected role and responsibilities of pharmacists during these two crises, and present strategies for better crisis preparedness. Pharmacists were actively involved in battling the SARS crises. After conducting extensive literature searches and evaluations, pharmacists prepared administration and dosing guidelines for the two investigational drugs, ribavirin and interferon alfacon-1, that were being used to treat the syndrome. They provided direct patient care under modified conditions. They revised drug distribution procedures and developed new ones to meet more stringent infection-control standards. Collaborative teamwork with key stakeholders was important in accomplishing tasks in an efficient and timely manner. Regular communication with health care staff took place internally and externally. Education and updated information for pharmacists was crucial. Pharmacists can play a vital role during crises in the areas of drug distribution, drug information, and direct patient care. Collaborative teamwork and close communication are keys to success. Pharmacists must be proactive and take ...Continue Reading

References

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Citations

Jun 15, 2007·Journal of Urban Health : Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine·David VlahovSandro Galea
Oct 12, 2013·Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·Heath FordCurt Harris
Oct 17, 2013·Journal of Pharmacy Practice·Heath FordMatthew Perri
Jun 13, 2020·Canadian Pharmacists Journal : CPJ = Revue Des Pharmaciens Du Canada : RPC·Kaitlyn E WatsonRoss T Tsuyuki
Aug 25, 2020·Drugs & Therapy Perspectives : for Rational Drug Selection and Use·Asmita Priyadarshini KhatiwadaSunil Shrestha
Jun 6, 2020·Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·Mariam Abdel JalilEman A Hammad
Dec 29, 2020·Frontiers in Public Health·Tauqeer Hussain MallhiTahir Mehmood Khan
Aug 17, 2021·Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare·Magdalena Waszyk-NowaczykPiotr Merks
Dec 2, 2020·Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal : SPJ : the Official Publication of the Saudi Pharmaceutical Society·Wejdan Aburas, Thamir M Alshammari

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