Selected infectious disease topics in the ED: Optimizing logistics to optimize care.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Emergency Medicine
• Pharmacy Practice

Background:

• Emergency medicine pharmacists (EMPs) are integral to bedside clinical decisions in emergency departments (EDs).
• They manage clinical questions and optimize logistical challenges involving electronic medical records and automated dispensing cabinets.
• This article focuses on three infectious disease issues where EMPs can enhance patient care during and after ED visits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss three common infectious disease-related issues where pharmacists can optimize patient care in the ED.
• To highlight the role of EMPs in improving clinical workflows and patient experiences.
• To review strategies for optimizing antibiotic prophylaxis, rabies postexposure prophylaxis, and sexually transmitted infection treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis in open fractures.
• Analysis of barriers and optimization strategies for rabies postexposure prophylaxis administration.
• Examination of guideline updates, logistical challenges, and adherence opportunities for sexually transmitted infection treatment.

Main Results:

• EMPs can improve the timely administration of antibiotics for open fractures.
• Strategies exist to overcome barriers in rabies immune globulin and vaccine administration.
• Optimizing medication logistics and adherence is crucial for treating sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusions:

• EMPs are uniquely positioned to improve interdepartmental workflows and patient care due to their combined expertise.
• Focusing on infectious disease management in three key areas can significantly enhance patient outcomes and experience.
• The role of EMPs is critical in optimizing the delivery of care for common and serious infectious conditions in the ED.