We've unpacked 6 suitcases and 2 trunks of medications - the pharmacy is now open for business!
Today we operate on our first patient. I'm excited to see her roll out of the Operating Room (or Theater as they call it here) with a new lease on life. I've spent the morning providing the anesthesiologists and pefusionists with medications that they will need during the operation. Once our patient arrives to the ICU, I'll set the nurses up with the medications they will need for the next 24 hours - mostly pain medications, postoperative antibiotics and blood pressure medications.
I have been working closely with George, the Australian pharmacist from the Open Heart team. George has had over 25 years of experience doing mission trips and is a valuable resource for the entire team. In his travels he's been to Papua New Guinuea, Nepal, Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu. Maybe one day I'll be able to recite a list like that!
On Monday, George and I will meet with King Faisal's pharmacist to discuss the standard medications required for cardiac surgery. As part of our effort to create a sustainable program here at the hospital, we are working towards expanding the pharmacy's formulary.
It will definitely be busy, but I'm looking forward to an exciting two weeks!
Great job, Bonnie!!! Very proud to have you representing the BWH pharmacy department out there! Look forward to hearing you (and everyone else's) updates!
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ReplyDeleteBonnie, this is great that you are do this!!! Good luck there! Keep posting updates!! Looking forward to seeing you back in Boston!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you and George are starting out strong there! Good luck to you guys, and we'll be watching for more posts. :)
ReplyDeleteThere IS a pharmacist in the house! We couldn't be better represented over there, such an awesome job. Sounds like you have a ton going on and are definitely in the mix with every patient. So cool. Enjoy your time and we'll see ya soon!
ReplyDeleteGo Bonnie! It sounds like you are off to such a great start over there. I'm so excited for you and Team Heart! We're all cheering for you and are so proud of you!
ReplyDeleteGreat work, Bonnie!! we're all thinking of you and the team and your patients!
ReplyDeleteThank you everyone!! I couldn't work with a better group of friends. I miss you all and can't wait for a trip to the Mission when I get back from this mission :)
ReplyDeleteBonnie, good luck on your hemodynamic in-service!
ReplyDeleteGreat Job Bonnie! Everyone is so proud of Team Heart and our Team Heart Pharmacist!! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get back! :)
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