Francesca Sosnowski, PharmD, MBA (left) and Simone Muller, PharmD, BCPS
A highly allergic patient safely delivered her first baby at The Mount Sinai Hospital, and her mother expressed appreciation for the exceptional efforts of pharmacists Simone Muller, PharmD, BCPS, Director of Medication Safety, The Mount Sinai Hospital, and Francesca Sosnowski, PharmD, MBA.
The patient is strongly allergic to eggs and dairy and was at potential risk for an anaphylactic reaction such as hives, swelling, and trouble breathing—symptoms that could be catastrophic. Francesca, Simone, and team worked collaboratively to develop a comprehensive list of medications that include the allergens of concern, and then conducted an exhaustive search to ensure the patient would not be exposed them.
The patient’s mother writes, “Their attention to detail and passion for doing right by my daughter is noteworthy and commendable, especially as the very comprehensive list they produced clearly reflected hours of painstaking work. She carried this list in her go bag, and I can testify that it was extensive and clearly coded, leaving no room for error.”
Francesca credits the entire team for the effort. “Simone and I may have done the legwork, but it was also providers from obstetrics and anesthesiology, nurses, pharmacists, and others, who came together to empower the patient in her own care. This experience truly demonstrates how collaboration and shared commitment to medication and patient safety can optimize the patient’s comfort during a sensitive time. I’m proud to be part of a team that leads with such heart.”
Simone adds, “There isn’t always a specific person to do an unusual task/project, especially when it is known to be a large undertaking with a deadline. Each of us has to step forward when needed and work together to ensure our patients are safe. It can be done when we work together and have a common goal.”
Kimberly Zammit, PharmD, MPH, BCPS, BCCCP, FASHP, Executive Director of Clinical Pharmacy Services, directs her praise to the two women. “Our pharmacy team takes great pride in Simone and Francesca’s outstanding dedication, professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to safety. Their actions helped ensure a safe delivery for a high-risk patient and peace of mind for a family during a vulnerable and emotional time.”