Pediatric Satellite Pharmacy

Whenever I get a chance to work some overtime, I often spend time in Beaumont's pediatric pharmacy. This satellite is located in the Children's hospital, which features pediatric inpatient beds, neonatal and pediatric ICUs, and a surgical center.

Understandably, a major difference between this pharmacy satellite and others is that there is a daily "batch" of liquid medication doses to be syringed up for the patients. This task can test really test your attention to detail- doses range from 0.05ml to over 10ml, so its important to check yourself with each syringe (especially when drawing them up at the end of a 10-hour shift!). Another layer of detail  includes noting the number of syringes required for a set of twins (or even triplets). It can be less than straightforward, especially when BabyBoyA requires 1 dose at 1.36ml and BabyBoyB requires 2 daily doses at 0.645ml, for example.

In addition to the liquid medications, there are typical stat orders and IV compound mixtures to be made throughout the day. Other unique responsibilities involve drawing up propofol syringes for procedures, making IV Remicaide, weighing out PEG powder, and compounding starter TPN bags.

Generally, its imperative to appreciate the different dosing required for pediatric patients, as this becomes readily apparent after spending most workdays filling adult doses.