Every shift presents new challenges
By Angel-Rose Weber, PharmD, BCPS
As an emergency department pharmacist, my role is dynamic and ever-changing. Every shift presents new challenges, and I must be adaptable to the varying demands of each night. No two shifts are the same, and my responsibilities continuously evolve based on the needs of the department.
I serve as an overnight emergency department pharmacist at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, NY. Prior to this role, I graduated with my PharmD degree from the University of Saint Joseph’s in West Hartford, CT, and completed a PGY1 pharmacy residency at Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY.
Let me take you on a journey into a day in my life.
My presence is critical
A central aspect of my role involves conducting medication histories for patients upon admission. Depending on the patient’s clinical condition, I gather this information by speaking directly with the patient, consulting their family, and/or reviewing external medical records to ensure a thorough and accurate history. After compiling the medication history, I assess and identify any discrepancies or potential recommendations, which I communicate to the interdisciplinary team for further evaluation.
In addition to medication histories, I respond to a variety of critical codes, such as code blue, stroke codes, STEMI codes, sepsis codes, and other situations requiring pharmacist involvement at the bedside. My primary responsibility in these high-stress situations is to provide real-time support, ensuring that essential medications—such as vasopressors, antibiotics, antiarrhythmics, thrombolytics, and sedative agents—are promptly assessed, secured, and prepared. I also assist with recommending appropriate reversal agents, managing the crash cart, providing pharmacological guidance, priming IV lines, and programming IV pumps. Having a pharmacist present during these codes is critical to managing the medication-related aspects of patient care, which directly enhances patient outcomes in these time-sensitive situations.
Furthermore, I serve as a valuable resource for the interdisciplinary team, offering drug information on a wide range of topics, including therapeutic monitoring, antimicrobial management, drug-induced conditions, drug interactions, and more. As a new practitioner, I recognize the importance of continuous learning. I am always transparent when I need to research drug information and view these opportunities as a means to deepen my knowledge, improve patient care, and strengthen collaboration with my colleagues.
Leadership and wellness activities
Beyond the emergency room, I prioritize personal well-being and activities that prevent burnout. I have recently reconnected with a past passion by joining a recreational lacrosse league—in the photo I am standing, fourth from right—and I plan to make this an annual tradition. I am also committed to giving back to the pharmacy profession. At Ellis Hospital, I serve as a preceptor for student pharmacists in emergency medicine. Additionally, I contribute to the new practitioner committees for both APhA and the New York State Council of Health-System Pharmacists.
I recently obtained my board certification in pharmacotherapy in March 2025, and, looking ahead, I am eager to achieve my board certifications in emergency medicine as well.
Angel-Rose Weber, PharmD, BCPS, is an emergency department pharmacist at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, NY. Her hobbies include video games, pickleball, and aqua Zumba classes at the YMCA.