The aim of the MICP SIG Seminar is to provide an annual educational and networking opportunity for
our members. Over the last few years a popular format has evolved which provides learning in a
chosen clinical subject area together with practical exemplars of medicines information queries
embedded within a series of interactive workshops.
Clinical topic specialist pharmacists are teamed with medicines information pharmacists – the idea
being that the topic specialist covers background knowledge and evidence-based practice in the area
and the medicines information specialist uses topical, real-life enquiries to illustrate and teach
practical medicines information skills.
Having pharmacists teach pharmacists helps ensure the content is highly relevant to practice. We
are especially excited about the surgical pharmacy theme this year as it is an area of hospital
practice that is not often taught in formal education settings. We believe that many of the practice
issues will cross-over to the care of all patients so the seminar will still be widely relevant to a range
of hospital pharmacists.
WORKSHOP 1 - KEY SURGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
This first workshop will provide coverage of three key surgical considerations: pain relief, venous
thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis, and fluid management.
WORKSHOP 2 – ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY WITH A TWIST
This workshop will provide insight into the world of orthopaedic surgery with an emphasis on
potentially tricky patients such as the elderly or those with comorbidities. An intriguing twist here is
the clinical specialist pharmacist presenting this session is a pharmacist prescriber so will discuss
how this is woven into her practice. There will also be some coverage of spinal surgery.
WORKSHOP 3 – GASTROINTESTINAL SURGERY
After hearing a talk about all the interesting surgical procedures, and a session on pancreatitis, this
workshop will cover key some issues for general surgery such as nutrition and drug administration
considerations. It will also offer therapeutic pearls on unique gastrointestinal challenges and an
update on current approaches to post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV).
WORKSHOP 4 - NEUROSURGERY
The fascinating world of neurosurgery will be uncovered - subarachnoid haemorrhage management
together with the following treatment and monitoring issues: blood pressure management, seizure
prophylaxis, intracranial pressure monitors and drains.
WORKSHOP 5 – VASCULAR SURGERY
This workshop will provide a brief overview of basic types of vascular surgery and then delve into
managing the special risks associated with this patient population i.e. diabetes, renal impairment
and the treatment of neuropathic pain.
WORKSHOP 6 – HIGH RISK PATIENTS
The final workshop for the weekend will explore the role of pharmacists in the management of
patients with pre-existing conditions associated with a significant risk of perioperative morbidity and
mortality; in particular atrial fibrillation and delirium.