Hello safety leaders,

We are seeing cases of heparin infusions not discontinued prior arrival to the OR. We are evaluating the process and ownership issues that have been identified. We are an Epic institution, and pharmacists manage titratable heparin drips. Physician education has focused on how to hold/unhold heparin in Epic.

I am struggling to find non-clinical evidence of best practices for periprocedural heparin (or medication) management. Looking to the group for best practices/successful processes for timely medication review prior to surgery. For example, some kind of electronic reminder support (Epic) or advanced pre-procedural checklist?

Respectfully,
Megan Fragale, PharmD, Ms, BCPS
Medication Safety Officer
Skagit Regional Health
Mount Vernon, Washington