OBJECTIVES: 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. METHODS AND RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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 a leadership role in assuming pharmacy-related responsibilities. By evaluating what worked and what didn't, pharmacists can develop procedures for future crises requiring pharmacy support.
OBJECTIVES: 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. METHODS AND RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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 a leadership role in assuming pharmacy-related responsibilities. By evaluating what worked and what didn't, pharmacists can develop procedures for future crises requiring pharmacy support.
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Authors: Susan M Poutanen; Donald E Low; Bonnie Henry; Sandy Finkelstein; David Rose; Karen Green; Raymond Tellier; Ryan Draker; Dena Adachi; Melissa Ayers; Adrienne K Chan; Danuta M Skowronski; Irving Salit; Andrew E Simor; Arthur S Slutsky; Patrick W Doyle; Mel Krajden; Martin Petric; Robert C Brunham; Allison J McGeer Journal: N Engl J Med Date: 2003-03-31 Impact factor: 91.245
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Authors: Mona R Loutfy; Lawrence M Blatt; Katharine A Siminovitch; Sarah Ward; Bryan Wolff; Hyoung Lho; Dieu H Pham; Hassan Deif; Elizabeth A LaMere; Margaret Chang; Kevin C Kain; Gabriella A Farcas; Patti Ferguson; Mary Latchford; Gary Levy; James W Dennis; Enoch K Y Lai; Eleanor N Fish Journal: JAMA Date: 2003-12-24 Impact factor: 56.272
Authors: J S M Peiris; S T Lai; L L M Poon; Y Guan; L Y C Yam; W Lim; J Nicholls; W K S Yee; W W Yan; M T Cheung; V C C Cheng; K H Chan; D N C Tsang; R W H Yung; T K Ng; K Y Yuen Journal: Lancet Date: 2003-04-19 Impact factor: 79.321
Authors: Piotr Merks; Marta Jakubowska; Ewelina Drelich; Damian Świeczkowski; Joanna Bogusz; Krzysztof Bilmin; Katarina Fehir Sola; Andreas May; Anita Majchrowska; Mark Koziol; Jakub Pawlikowski; Miłosz Jaguszewski; Regis Vaillancourt Journal: Res Social Adm Pharm Date: 2020-06-12