Inside the OR: A Retired Anesthesiologist's Take on Drug Diversion
If somebody is diverting fentanyl from the workplace, odds are they are using in the workplace, because once you get to that point, you're basically trying to stave off withdrawal symptoms continuously, basically.
Picture the high-stakes environment of an operating room, where every second counts and the slightest error can have serious consequences. Now, imagine trying to keep an eye out for drug diversion in such a setting. In this episode of 'Drug Diversion Insights', host Terri Vidals sits down with retired anesthesiologist Dr. Keith Berge, who spent over three decades in the OR, to talk about this very challenge. Dr.
Berge offers a rare glimpse into the often-hidden world of drug diversion among anesthesia providers, sharing stories from his career and offering practical advice on how to spot and prevent it. He discusses the alarming rates of fentanyl addiction in the field and the crucial role of pharmacy-anesthesia collaboration in tackling this issue. The conversation also touches on the power of artificial intelligence in identifying unusual patterns that might indicate diversion. Dr.
Berge doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, including the high relapse rates among anesthesia residents and the emotional toll of dealing with colleagues who might be struggling with addiction. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in healthcare, particularly those working in high-pressure environments like the OR. Dr. Berge’s insights could be the key to making your workplace safer and more vigilant against drug diversion.