Defining International Critical Care Pharmacist Contributions to Sepsis and Exploring Variability

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To define international clinical pharmacist contributions to managing sepsis in critically unwell patients and explore variation.

Recent Findings

Clinical pharmacists improve clinical outcomes and cost efficiencies. They provide pharmaceutical advice on selection, administration, plus monitoring of antimicrobials and supportive therapies. Logistical activities reduce drug administration times. Guideline production, patient/clinician education, prescribing error identification, plus therapeutic optimisation activities are also reported.

Summary

A survey incorporating semi-structured interviews identified further antimicrobial stewardship, prescribing and digital contributions to optimise sepsis management. However, disparities associated with multidisciplinary team integration and intensive care unit service provision were found. Variability was attributed to multifaceted physical, social, financial, training and education themes. Findings empower collaborations between pharmacists and stakeholders to identify and overcome contribution barriers. Strategies to mitigate barriers and enhance sepsis contributions were envisaged by reported aspirations. These emphasised the importance of professional advocacy, interprofessional education and impactful implementation research.