By Deborah Wagner, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist/Instructor, OR Pharmacy
The 31st Annual Meeting of the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology was held last May in the mile high city of Denver, CO. The location seemed destined to elevate the status of the department’s obstetric division. The department was well represented and members presented two platform sessions and a poster session.
First to take the stage was Norah Naughton, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor. Dr. Naughton presented her ongoing research characterizing morphine-induced pruritus and antinociception in an animal model. The presentation initiated a flurry of discussion including the vocal protests of animal rights activists. Despite the protest, the majority of the audience was tremendously impressed by the invaluable utility of this animal model.
Dr. Linda Polley, Clinical Assistant Professor gave the second platform session, with the latest sequel in the MLAC series, “The Effect of IV vs Epidural Fentanyl on the MLAC of Epidural Bupivacaine.” This particular paper had been nominated along with eight other finalists for best paper of the year in obstetric anesthesia. Being judged by a panel of experts, Dr. Polley gave it her all and held steady to the podium (literally). She stood up to the verbal debate that ensued over the MLAC model and sequestered even the most notable of foes. With great expectation and hesitation it was announced several hours later that indeed Dr. Polley and associates had won the award. Dr. Polley has since embarked on the forthcoming MLAC study.
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OB Nurses DJ Medved and Cheryl Pierce |
The poster exhibited by Cheryl Pierce, RN and DJ Medved, RN presented our unique approach to utilizing obstetric anesthesia nurses to improve the quality of service. It stimulated an array of interest from multiple institutions as a way to improve patient care in a time of decreasing numbers of anesthesia residents. The response was so positive that the presenters have been invited to write a paper on the subject for publication. Kudos to the obstetric anesthesia nurse team.
Other participants from the University of Michigan Department of Anesthesia included Dr. Deanna Dorantes, Instructor, Deborah Wagner, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist/Instructor, OR Pharmacy, and Mark Erber, RN.
Aside from the meeting, the U-M contingency spent time sightseeing in the Rockies, with stops to see the Red Rocks, Wild Bill Cody’s Museum and Wild West Show, and the infamous Coor’s brewery. A wonderful time was had and national recognition bestowed on the department’s obstetric division.
Congratulations to all.
