Integrative Biomedical Research | Online ISSN  2207-872X
RESEARCH ARTICLE   (Open Access)

Enhancing Emergency Overdose Management: The Critical Role of Pharmacists in Clinical Decision-Making and Patient Outcomes

Hassan Duairam Thawab Al-Shahrani 1*, Saad Abdulrazaq Ahmed Hayjan 1, Fahad Suliman A Alsaif 1, Majed Alsawaji 1, Omar Mohammed Musahib Al-Omari 1, Faisal Mubarak Mutani Al-Harbi 1, Najlaa Saeed Alghamdi 1, Ibrahim Muhammad Al-Arej 1, Musaad Eid Saeed Aldosari 1, Meshal Ibrahim Zaid ALOwias 1, Hathal Fahad Ali Alsubaie 1, Sami Abdullah Al Mutairi 1, Ziyad Badi Alharbi 1, Ali D Alshahrani 1

+ Author Affiliations

Journal of Angiotherapy 8 (1) 1-11 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.8110198

Submitted: 15 November 2023 Revised: 26 December 2023  Published: 01 January 2024 


Abstract

Background: Overdose incidents are increasingly prevalent worldwide and have significant implications for patient morbidity and mortality, presenting a critical challenge for emergency healthcare services. Pharmacists, as integral members of the healthcare team, possess specialized knowledge and skills that are essential in the timely recognition, accurate medication reconciliation, and targeted pharmacological management of overdose cases. This study aimed to evaluate the role of pharmacists in managing overdose cases within emergency settings, with an emphasis on enhancing clinical outcomes and optimizing treatment protocols. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving pharmacists and emergency medical personnel across various hospital settings. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and structured questionnaires, focusing on key aspects of pharmacist involvement in overdose management, including risk assessment, antidote administration, and interprofessional collaboration. Results: Pharmacists were actively involved in the management of overdose cases in 68% of the reported instances. Their contributions were particularly notable in identifying drug interactions, recommending appropriate antidotes, and providing precise dosing guidance. Respondents highlighted the critical role of pharmacists in enhancing medication safety and reducing the incidence of adverse events. Nonetheless, variability in pharmacist involvement was noted across institutions, primarily due to staffing limitations and the absence of standardized protocols. Conclusion: Pharmacists play a pivotal yet often underrecognized role in the management of overdose cases in emergency settings. Their expertise in pharmacotherapy and collaborative clinical engagement significantly contributes to improved patient outcomes. To maximize their impact, consistent integration of pharmacists into emergency response teams across healthcare systems is strongly recommended.

Keywords: Pharmacist involvement, overdose management, emergency care, antidote administration, interprofessional collaboration

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