Simple narcotic kits for controlled-substance dispensing and accountability

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Operating rooms need robust systems for managing restricted drugs.
• Compliance with narcotics control authorities is essential.
• Efficient patient care must be maintained alongside drug security.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel narcotic kit system for operating rooms.
• To ensure compliance with narcotics control regulations.
• To facilitate efficient drug dispensing and accounting.

Main Methods:

• Development of pre-packaged narcotic kits (fentanyl-morphine-midazolam, etc.) in video cassette holders.
• Daily delivery from pharmacy to a locked recovery room cupboard.
• Anesthetist sign-out, recording of drug utilization, and return for reconciliation by pharmacy.

Main Results:

• The system has been used for seven years with over 130,000 patients.
• Effectively tracks drug usage, with one diversion case detected partly by the system.
• Simple, inexpensive, and well-received by pharmacy, anesthesia, and nursing staff.

Conclusions:

• The described narcotic kit system is effective, simple, and inexpensive.
• It meets regulatory requirements while supporting efficient patient care.
• The system aids in preventing and detecting drug diversion in operating rooms.