The number of emergency drug boxes in circulation across the organisation increased during the Covid-19 pandemic to support changes in guidance and ensure preparedness for clinical emergencies. This provision has not been reviewed since 2020 and now represents a surplus.

A review has been undertaken to identify surplus stock and safely reduce the number of emergency drug boxes in circulation.

Current contents of Emergency Drug Box 2 (main image) should be: 

• Adrenaline PFS x4
• Amiodarone PFS x1
• Calcium Chloride PFS x1
• Anaphylaxis pack

In the rare event that additional medication is required, a second box can be obtained from a nearby clinical area, provided this is communicated appropriately.

Replacement boxes are available via Pharmacy during normal working hours, with access to the out-of-hours drug cupboard outside these times.

Emergency Drug Box 1 includes Sodium Bicarbonate and will remain in use in specific high-risk areas (e.g. Acute Floor, ICU, ED and Theatres). This arrangement is unchanged.

The following areas will see a reduction from two emergency drug boxes to one on adult resuscitation trolleys:

All clinical areas will continue to have access to at least one emergency drug box on adult resuscitation trolleys. Daily checking requirements remain unchanged, including confirmation that the box is present and in date.

Additional Information

This review also aligns with a change in suppliers for cannula connectors, which may affect compatibility with the Aurum PFS currently in use at CHFT.

As part of this process, all affected pre-filled syringes will be replaced with Aurum Connect PFS ahead of the supplier transition. This change will not impact patient safety and will be undertaken by Pharmacy.

When using PFS, please ensure:

• Labels match the below image  
• Diagonal markings are present to indicate when the seal has been broken
• Any PFS with a broken or compromised seal must be returned to Pharmacy and replaced.