Bridget Petrillo: 24 Years of Triumph Over Addiction in the OR
I never said when I wanted to become a nurse anesthetist, that I wanted to become a drug addict.
Imagine facing the relentless pressures of the operating room while battling a substance use disorder. In this compelling episode of 'Drug Diversion Insights with Terri Vidals', Bridget Petrillo, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), shares her incredible 24-year journey from addiction to recovery. Bridget opens up about the factors that led her down the path of addiction, the pivotal intervention that changed her life, and her challenging yet triumphant return to the OR.
She also offers heartfelt advice to new healthcare professionals entering this high-stress environment. Bridget's story is a powerful reminder that addiction doesn't discriminate; it can touch anyone, regardless of their profession or background. She emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community and holding oneself accountable, shedding light on the human side of substance use disorders in healthcare.
This episode also tackles the critical issue of drug diversion in medical settings, discussing how advanced technologies like artificial intelligence can help detect and prevent these risks. Whether you're a healthcare worker, someone battling addiction, or simply interested in stories of resilience, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear Bridget's transformative journey and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by healthcare professionals dealing with substance use disorders.