University Times

Copies of a book that helps pharmacy departments devise an emergency preparedness plan to deal with potential chemical or biological attacks were distributed to 6,500 U.S. pharmacies.

“Biological and Chemical Terrorism: A Pharmacy Preparedness Guide” was written by Edward P. Krenzelok, professor in Pitt’s School of Pharmacy and director of the Pittsburgh Poison Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Featuring a comprehensive review of the agents most likely to be used in a biological or chemical attack, this book provides emergency planners with a starting point for their readiness efforts.

The book includes a brief history of biological and chemical terrorism and an extensive list of resources to help pharmacists develop a preparedness plan.

Published by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the book is a resource to prepare institutional pharmacies for these forms of terrorism. “Our nation’s hospitals and health systems must be poised to treat victims of terrorism,” said ASHP president Debra S. Devereaux. “It is critical that we provide our members with the tools they will need to take a leadership role in the emergency preparedness activities at their practice sites.”

ASHP, the national accrediting organization for pharmacy residency and pharmacy technician training programs, distributed the book through a grant from AstraZeneca, Inc., an international health care business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription pharmaceuticals.

Copies of the book can be purchased from ASHP’s customer service department by calling 301/657-4383 or by visiting the ASHP web site at www.ashp.org