In recent years, there has been a trend toward increased use of intravenous anesthetic agents in the operating room and for sedation of ventilated patients in the intensive care unit. Since outbreaks of infection have been associated with intravenous medications, an understanding of appropriate aseptic technique is necessary for their use.
A booklet entitled, ‘Recommendations for Handling Parenteral Medications Used for Anesthesia or Sedation” and an accompanying poster have been prepared and will be distributed to members of the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation through a grant provided by Zeneca Pharmaceuticals. The recommendations are derived from current infection control guidelines and published studies.
As the medical community is faced with increasing production and economic pressures that could compromise safety, it is more crucial than ever that proper infection control practice be maintained.
For more information, contact Arnold Berry, M.D., Professor of Anesthesiology; Emory University School of Medicine; 1364 Clifton Road, N.E.; Atlanta, GA 30322; (404) 778-3937.