Hotline set up for pharmacists in crisis
Addresses devastating impact of med errors
The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists is partnering with the American Psychological Association (APA) for a program to provide pharmacists with assistance in dealing with the personal emotional difficulties many experience after being involved in a serious medication error.
Pharmacists often experience this kind of trauma when a medication error results in serious patient harm or even death. Through this new program, pharmacists can call (800) 964-2000 to reach a referral service operated by the APA. The APA will put callers in touch with their specific state’s psychological association, which will then make recommendations to the caller for a local psychologist. The local psychologist can assist the pharmacist by offering coping mechanisms for potential job loss, professional sanctions, feelings of guilt, and inability to talk with others about the event. The program is designed to provide pharmacists with the tools necessary to put the event into perspective and be able to face their sometimes hostile environments. For more information about this program, visit the ASHP web site at www.ashp.com/public/news/ShowArticle.cfm?id=1929.
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