Drug diversion is a serious issue in hospital environments throughout the U.S. and in other countries around the world. The issue not only affects healthcare professionals involved in drug diversion activities, but puts patients at risk as well. Identifying and preventing drug diversion is filled with challenges.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that ‘over 70% of overdose deaths in 2019 alone were caused by opioids’. Awareness and acknowledgement of the problem of drug diversion in every hospital is essential for taking steps in prevention, as is a greater focus on hospital pharmaceutical waste disposal processes. Diligence is key in reducing the risk of ruined careers, criminal penalties, outbreaks of infectious diseases, and harm or death to patients – and to healthcare professionals responsible for their care.

Alarming statistics of drug diversion among nurses emphasizes the need for stronger programs, better pharmaceutical disposal processes, and education in order to reduce the risk of such incidents from happening in your hospital or medical facility. Read more >