OPTIMIZING SURGICAL WORKFLOW AND MEDICATION SAFETY IN MULTISPECIALTY SURGICAL CARE THROUGH PHARMACY AND NURSING COLLABORATION

Abstract

Introduction: Effective surgical care requires seamless integration of multiple healthcare professionals, with pharmacy and nursing collaboration playing a pivotal role in ensuring medication safety and optimizing workflow. Pharmacists contribute specialized pharmacologic knowledge, while nurses execute patient-centered care, enabling accurate and timely medication administration. The synergy between these professions enhances patient outcomes, reduces errors, and supports adherence to enhanced recovery protocols, while also addressing complex clinical and ethical challenges inherent to multispecialty surgical care.

Aim of Work: This study aims to examine how pharmacy and nursing collaboration affects surgical workflow efficiency, medication safety, patient outcomes, and the mitigation of perioperative risks. Additionally, the study investigates ethical concerns, professional accountability, and operational challenges associated with implementing collaborative care models in diverse surgical settings.

Methods: A mixed-method approach was employed, combining structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and observational analysis. The study involved pharmacists, nurses, and surgical team members across multiple specialties to evaluate the impact of collaborative interventions on medication management, workflow optimization, adherence to perioperative protocols, and patient-centered outcomes. Data were triangulated to assess both quantitative improvements in efficiency and qualitative perceptions regarding teamwork, communication, and ethical considerations.

Findings: The collaboration between pharmacy and nursing teams significantly improved medication accuracy, timely administration, and adherence to enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. Multidisciplinary coordination reduced the incidence of drug-related problems, postoperative complications, and workflow inefficiencies. Participants reported enhanced interprofessional communication, shared accountability, and increased confidence in managing complex surgical cases. Ethical and resource-related challenges, such as professional role boundaries, informed consent, and equitable access to pharmacist support, were also highlighted.

Conclusion: Pharmacy and nursing collaboration represents an effective, patient-centered strategy for optimizing surgical care. The integration of pharmacists into surgical teams enhances medication safety, workflow efficiency, and clinical decision-making, while maintaining ethical and professional standards. Institutional support for structured interprofessional collaboration and continuous education is essential for sustaining high-quality surgical outcomes and promoting a culture of safety and accountability.