Chemical Security Education Could Reduce Diversion, Misuse, and Errors in Hospital Settings in the United States

Abstract

Modern hospitals and healthcare clinics contain vast arsenals of dangerous drugs that have the potential for serious abuse and error if not properly stored, handled, and disposed of. In this commentary, we discuss drug-handling practices that students in the health sciences should be familiar with, focusing primarily on narcotics and paralytics. We also recount instances when chemical security was breached, with major impacts to public health and security.