This PPT Covers B. Pharm, Pharmacy Practice Unit-III topics with 1. Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee, 2. Information Services, 3. Patient Counseling, 4. Education and Training Program in the Hospital 5. Prescribed Medication Order and Communication Skills.

1. Pharmacy
and
Therapeutics
Committee

2. Organization
of the P&T
Committee
The Pharmacy and Therapeutics
Committee (P&T Committee) is essential to
healthcare organizations, particularly
hospitals and healthcare systems.
Its primary role is to oversee and guide the
management, selection, and appropriate
utilization of pharmaceutical products and
ensure the safe and effective use of
medications for patients.
The P&T Committee is typically composed
of multidisciplinary members
Pharmacists, Physicians, Nurses,
Administrative Staff, Quality and Safety
Experts.

3. Pharmacists
Pharmacists with diverse
backgrounds, expertise,
and specialties are central
to the committee.
Pharmacist’s knowledge
about medications, drug
interactions, adverse
effects, and dosing
regimens is crucial for the
committee's decision-
making process.

4. Physicians
Medical doctors from various
specialties provide clinical
insights and perspectives on
medication use, especially in
specific patient populations or
disease conditions.

5. Nurses
Nurses contribute their
expertise in administering
medications and monitoring
patient responses to therapies,
ensuring practicality and safety.

6. Administrative
Staff
Administrative staff manages
the logistics of the committee's
meetings, maintains records,
and facilitates communication
between committee members
and other departments.

7. Quality and Safety
Experts
Professionals specializing in
patient safety and quality
improvement help ensure
medication-related decisions
align with patient safety goals.

8. Functions of
the P&T
Committee

9. Formulary
Management
One of the P&T Committee's primary
responsibilities is establishing and
managing the hospital's formulary. The
formulary is a list of medications approved
for use within the organization. The
committee evaluates new drugs and
decides which ones should be included in
the formulary based on factors such as
safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and
clinical need.

10. Drug Evaluation
The committee assesses new medications
entering the market and existing
medications' safety and efficacy profiles.
They review clinical trial data,
pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and
other relevant information to determine
whether a drug should be added to or
removed from the formulary.

11. Therapeutic
Guidelines
The committee develops and maintains
evidence-based therapeutic guidelines
and treatment protocols. These
guidelines help standardize the use of
medications for specific conditions and
ensure consistent, high-quality patient
care.

12. Drug Utilization
Review
The committee reviews medication use
patterns within the organization. This includes
monitoring prescribing practices, identifying
inappropriate or excessive use of medications,
and implementing interventions to improve
patient outcomes and reduce costs.

13. Medication Safety
P&T Committees focus on medication
safety initiatives. They evaluate adverse
drug events and medication errors and work
to prevent future occurrences by
implementing measures like medication
education, proper labeling, and safety
alerts.

14. Cost Considerations
The committee assesses the cost-
effectiveness of medications and strives to
balance providing quality care and managing
healthcare costs.

15. Education
P&T Committees provide educational
resources for healthcare professionals
regarding medication use, including dosing,
administration, potential side effects, and
drug interactions.

16. Policies of the Pharmacy and
Therapeutics Committee
H OW D R U GS AR E IN C LU D ED IN TO TH E
FOR MU LARY
The Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) Committee is
responsible for an essential task: balancing cost,
efficacy, and safety issues to determine which
medications are the best choices for their patient
population. The specific policies regarding the
inclusion of drugs into a formulary may vary between
institutions but generally include the following:

17. Evaluation
Criteria
The drug should be effective for the
conditions it purports to treat, as
demonstrated by high-quality clinical
studies.
The medication should have an acceptable
safety profile. The incidence and severity of
side effects, drug interactions, and other
safety metrics are closely evaluated.
Consideration is given to the cost of the
medication to the healthcare system and
the patient. This often involves comparing
the new medication to existing treatments
to determine if it offers a cost advantage or
significantly improved outcomes.

18. Evaluation
Criteria
Issues of drug supply, storage conditions,
and other logistical factors may be
considered.
Direct or indirect comparisons are reviewed
with other drugs used for the same
condition.
Also Includes the route of administration,
dosing frequency, and whether or not the
drug is a “me-too” drug (a drug very similar
to one that already exists).

19. Review
Process
1. Submission: A new drug will
usually be submitted for review by a
pharmaceutical company or
clinicians within the healthcare
system.
2. Literature Review: Committee
members will review the available
literature on the drug, including
clinical trials, meta-analyses, and
other public data.
3. Expert Opinion: External or
internal subject matter experts may
be consulted for further insights into
the drug’s efficacy and safety.

20. Review
Process
4. Pilot Testing: Sometimes, a drug
may be approved for a trial period
to gather more data on its
effectiveness and safety within the
specific patient population.
5. Voting: The committee members
will typically vote to include or
exclude a medication based on all
the collected data.
6. Documentation: Decisions are
thoroughly documented, explaining
the rationale behind each addition
or exclusion.

21. Regular
Updates
The committee regularly reviews the
formulary to make updates as new data,
new medications, or new formulations
become available. Drugs may be added or
removed based on these updates.

22. Appeals
In many healthcare systems, the
decisions of the P&T Committee are
made transparent to encourage
understanding and adherence to the
formulary among the healthcare
providers.

23. Inpatient and
outpatient
prescription

24. Inpatient
Prescriptio
n
Medications are used within the hospital or healthcare facility.
Limited to the formulary approved by the P&T Committee for
inpatient care.
Often involves more specialized medications, including IV
medications, which require closer monitoring.
Medications may be subjected to automated review by
clinical decision support systems and manual review by
pharmacists.
Generally integrated into the electronic health record (EHR)
system.
The cost is usually covered as part of the inpatient treatment.

25. Outpatient
Prescriptio
n
Medications are taken by patients at home or outside the
healthcare facility.
It may have a broader range or a different formulary
approved by the P&T Committee for outpatient care.
Usually involves oral medications, topical agents, and others
that do not require close medical supervision.
Depending on the medication and setting, it may have fewer
layers of review.
Prescriptions are usually given to the patient to fill at an
external pharmacy, though they can also be sent
electronically.
It may be covered by outpatient benefits, which could involve
copayments or other out-of-pocket expenses.

26. Role of P&T
Committee
in Both
Settings
Decide which medications are on the
formulary for both inpatient and
outpatient care, considering factors like
efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Create and update guidelines, including
clinical pathways, for the use of
medications in various conditions.
Review and analyze medication errors,
adverse drug reactions, and drug
interactions, and propose strategies for
minimizing these risks.

27. Role of P&T
Committee
in Both
Settings
Provide ongoing education and training for
healthcare providers on medication-related
topics.
Monitor and evaluate outcomes related to
medication use, adherence to guidelines, and
patient safety.
Evaluate the financial impact of medication
choices, including potential for generic
substitution, therapeutic interchange, and bulk
purchasing.
Ensure medication use protocols comply with
local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

28. Automatic
stop order

29. Introduction
An Automatic Stop Order is a policy or protocol
implemented within healthcare settings to
ensure that certain medications are not
administered for an inappropriate time. This
usually happens in inpatient settings, such as
hospitals, where medications are administered
under close medical supervision.
The concept behind an automatic stop order is
to reduce the risk of medication-related
complications, such as antibiotic resistance,
adverse drug reactions, and other potential
issues that may arise from prolonged
medication use. The Pharmacy and
Therapeutics (P&T) Committee often reviews
and approves these orders and are part of the
institution's overall medication management
plan.

30. How
Automatic
Stop Orders
Work
When prescribed medication falls under the
automatic stop order protocol, the healthcare
team is alerted either through the electronic
health record system or other internal
communication mechanisms.
The medication is administered for a predetermined,
approved length of time. After this time elapses, the
medication is automatically discontinued unless a
healthcare provider reevaluates the need for its
continuation.
Medical staff, often including pharmacists, review the
patient's medication and clinical status to determine
whether the drug should be continued, adjusted, or
stopped.

31. How
Automatic
Stop Orders
Work
Healthcare providers are usually alerted
when the automatic stop order occurs,
prompting a clinical review.
If the healthcare provider deems it
necessary, they can renew the
prescription, potentially after some
modification. If not, the medication is
discontinued, and alternative therapies
may be considered.
All actions related to the stop order are
documented in the patient's medical
record for quality control and future
reference.

32. Types of
Medications
Typically
Under
Automatic
Stop Orders
Antibiotics: To prevent antibiotic
resistance and overuse.
Sedatives or Opioids: To minimize the
risk of dependency and other adverse
effects.
High-Alert Medications: Such as
anticoagulants to minimize the risk of
bleeding and other complications.
Short-Term Medications: Certain types of
steroids, diuretics, or other medications
generally intended for short-term use.

33. Importance
Reduces the risk of adverse drug
events by enforcing a timely review of
the medication's necessity.
Encourages regular reassessment of
the patient’s medication regimen,
thereby improving the quality of care.
Helps to avoid unnecessary medication
costs by discontinuing medications that
are no longer needed.
Assists in complying with guidelines
and best practices related to
medication management.

34. Emergency
drug list
preparation

35. Introduction
Preparing an emergency drug list is a
critical task that ensures the availability
of essential medications in cases of
emergency.
A Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T)
Committee often develops and reviews
this list in consultation with emergency
room physicians, anesthetists,
intensivists, and other healthcare
professionals involved in acute care
settings.
The list can vary depending on the type
of facility (e.g., general hospital,
specialized clinic, ambulatory care, etc.),
the types of emergencies commonly
encountered, and regulatory
requirements.

36. Steps for
Emergency
Drug List
Preparation
1. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the types of medical
emergencies most likely to be encountered in the specific
setting.
2. Consultation: Consult with medical experts, including
emergency physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and other
healthcare providers, to get recommendations on essential
emergency drugs.
3. Literature Review: Review guidelines, studies, and
recommendations from credible sources such as the World
Health Organization (WHO), the American Heart
Association (AHA), or other relevant bodies.
4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Make sure that the
list complies with local, state, and federal regulations, as
well as guidelines from relevant medical organizations.
5. Drug Selection: Choose medications based on efficacy,
safety profile, ease of administration, stability, and cost-
effectiveness. Specify the formulations, concentrations,
and quantities.

37. Steps for
Emergency
Drug List
Preparation
6. Approval: Get formal approval for the list from the P&T
Committee or the equivalent body responsible for medication
management.
7. Communication: Disseminate the list to relevant
departments, such as the emergency room, operating theaters,
intensive care units, and ambulances. Make sure staff are
trained on how to use these medications.
8. Storage: Ensure that emergency medications are stored in
easily accessible and clearly marked locations under conditions
that maintain their stability (e.g., temperature, humidity).
9. Inventory Management: Set up a system for regular checks
on medication stocks, expiration dates, and re-ordering to
ensure availability when needed.
10. Review and Update: Periodically review the list to include
new medications, remove obsolete ones, and update based on
new clinical guidelines or feedback from medical staff.

38. Common
Categories
of
Emergency
Drugs
Cardiac Drugs: Epinephrine, atropine, amiodarone, etc.
Respiratory Drugs: Albuterol, ipratropium, etc.
Antidotes: Naloxone (for opioid overdose), flumazenil
(for benzodiazepine overdose), etc.
Analgesics and Sedatives: Morphine, fentanyl,
midazolam, etc.
Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics for severe
infections.
Antiarrhythmics: Drugs like lidocaine, adenosine, etc.
Antihypertensives: Nitroglycerin, labetalol, etc.
Fluids and Electrolytes: Normal saline, Ringer's lactate,
potassium chloride, etc.
Others: Drugs for treating hyperglycemia,
anticoagulants, antiepileptics, etc.

39. It is crucial that the list is prepared and
that healthcare providers are trained in
the use, dosages, and contraindications
of these emergency medications to
ensure patient safety and effective
treatment.

40. Drug and Poison
Information Centre

41. Introduction
The Drug and Poison Information
Center (DPIC) is a specialized unit that
provides information and advice on the
safe use of drugs and the management
of poisonings. These centers are usually
staffed by pharmacists, physicians, and
other healthcare professionals specially
trained in toxicology and pharmacology.

42. Poisoning
managemen
t
They provide immediate advice on the
management of poisonings and overdoses.
This includes providing information on the
toxicity of substances, potential symptoms,
and appropriate first aid and treatment
measures

43. Drug information
They provide accurate and up-to-date information on
medications including their uses, side effects,
interactions, and dosing recommendations.

44. Public education
They provide education and awareness programs for
the public on poison prevention and the safe use of
medications.

45. Healthcare professional education
They provide training and educational resources to healthcare professionals on
the management of poisonings and the safe use of medications.

46. Data collection
They collect and analyze data on poisoning cases to identify trends, monitor
the effectiveness of interventions, and contribute to public health surveillance.

47. DPICs play a critical role in public health by helping to prevent poisonings and
ensuring the safe use of medications. They are usually available 24/7 and can
be accessed by phone or online. In the event of a poisoning or overdose, it is
essential to seek immediate help by calling the local emergency number or the
DPIC.

48. Sources of drug information

49. Introduction
Drug information services provide
specialized, evidence-based medication
information to healthcare professionals,
researchers, policymakers, and sometimes
the general public. These services aim to
promote the safe, effective, and rational use
of drugs.

50. Primary
Sources
Primary drug information sources
include unpublished studies and
original articles published in reputed
peer-reviewed journals reporting
original research, ideas, or opinions.
Clinical Trials: Original studies that
evaluate the efficacy and safety of
medications.
Case Reports: Individual or grouped
clinical presentations focusing on
unique drug effects, side effects, or
interactions.

51. Secondary
Sources
Secondary sources of drug information refer to
indexing and abstracting systems that organize
and provide easy retrieval of primary resources.
Review Articles: Summarize and evaluate
multiple primary literature articles on a
particular topic.
Meta-Analyses: Combine data from multiple
studies to arrive at pooled outcomes.
Cochrane Reviews: Systematic reviews of
primary research in human healthcare and
health policy, known for their stringent quality
criteria.

52. Tertiary
Sources
Tertiary sources of drug information summarize
data from the primary literature, including
reference books, drug compendia, essential
drug lists, treatment guidelines, drug
formularies, drug bulletins, and pharmacopeias.
Drug Monographs: Comprehensive documents
detailing a drug’s chemistry, pharmacology,
therapeutic uses, and safety profile.
Treatment Guidelines: Expert panels often
generate recommendations for treating specific
conditions.
Textbooks: Often serve as foundational
knowledge sources.

53. Commercial
Resources
Commercial sources of drug information
refer to drug information from
pharmaceutical companies or drug
manufacturers with the main aim of
promoting their drug and increasing
their product sales.
Drug Databases: Commercially
available databases like Micromedex,
Lexicomp, or UpToDate provide
comprehensive, peer-reviewed drug
information.
Pharmaceutical Companies: Information
from drug manufacturers is available but
should be scrutinized for bias.

54. Regulatory
Agencies
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
In the United States, this agency provides
data on approved medications, safety
alerts, and drug recalls.
European Medicines Agency (EMA):
Provides similar services within the
European Union.
Health Canada: The Canadian counterpart
for drug regulation.

55. Institutional
Resources
Hospital Formularies: These
provide lists of medications
approved for use within specific
healthcare institutions, often with
prescribing guidelines.
Internal Protocols: Some
healthcare settings have specific
protocols for drug use, developed
based on research and
institutional experience.

56. Professional
Organization
s
American Society of Health-System
Pharmacists (ASHP), Royal
Pharmaceutical Society (RPS), etc.:
Publish guidelines, position papers,
and drug information resources.
Pharmacopoeias: Official
publications containing a list of
medicinal drugs with their effects,
directions for use, and tests for
purity.

57. Patient or
Consumer-
Oriented
Sources
Brochures and Pamphlets:
Often available in
pharmacies or doctors’
offices.
Websites and Apps: Some
are reliable but should be
evaluated critically for
accuracy and credibility.

58. Others
Expert Consultation: Opinions
from field specialists may
sometimes be sought, especially
for rare or complex cases.
Lectures and Conferences:
Provide opportunities for
professionals to share new
research and clinical experience.

59. Computerise
d Services

60. Introduction
The use of computerized services for drug
information has dramatically expanded the
scope and efficiency of drug information
services. These technological platforms
facilitate quick access to updated,
evidence-based information that can be
critical for patient care, research, and
education.

61. Online Databases
Micromedex: Provides
comprehensive drug
information including
dosing, administration,
warnings, and
interactions.
Lexicomp: Offers a wide
range of drug information
resources and is often
integrated into hospital
electronic health record
systems.
UpToDate: While not
solely a drug information
resource, it includes
thorough drug information
sections within its clinical
topic reviews.

62. Institutional Databases
Electronic Health Records
(EHRs): Many EHRs have
integrated drug databases
that provide clinicians with
real-time drug information,
including possible interactions
or contraindications.
Hospital Formularies: These
can be computerized and
integrated into hospital
systems, providing quick
access to institutional
guidelines on drug use.

63. Governme
nt and
Regulatory
Agency
Websites
FDA Drug Information Database:
Provides access to approved drug
labels, safety communications,
and other information.
EMA (European Medicines
Agency) Database: Offers
information similar to the FDA but
focused on the European Union.

64. Decision Support Systems
Systems like Epic or Cerner
often have integrated drug
information and alert
mechanisms to notify
healthcare providers about
potential drug interactions,
allergies, or dosages.
Software like MDCalc
includes drug dosing
calculators based on the
latest clinical guidelines.

65. Mobile
Application
s
Apps like MyMedSchedule or
Medisafe help consumers
manage their medications and
provide basic drug information.
Apps like Epocrates provide
healthcare professionals with drug
information, including dosing, side
effects, and interactions.

66. Academic
and Library
Resources
PubMed: Provides access to a
vast array of primary literature,
including drug research.
Online Textbooks: Many
pharmacology and medical
textbooks are now available in
digital formats, sometimes with
interactive features.

67. Telemedicine
Platforms
Some platforms offer access to
pharmacists or other drug experts as
part of their service, allowing
healthcare providers to consult them
remotely for drug information.

68. Artificial
Intelligence
and
Machine
Learning
Emerging technologies use AI to analyze
large datasets for drug information,
including potential drug-drug interactions
and adverse effects.

69. Consumer
Websites
Websites like WebMD, Mayo Clinic often
have searchable drug databases for
consumer information, although they may
not be as comprehensive as professional
databases.

70. Storage and
retrieval of
information

71. Storage
Local Storage: Information can be stored locally on
hard drives, servers, or other physical media. This
method is fast but may be vulnerable to physical
damage or unauthorized access.
Cloud Storage: Services like Google Drive, Dropbox,
and AWS offer secure, remote storage options that
can be accessed from anywhere with an internet
connection.
Database Systems: Relational databases like MySQL
or specialized medical databases can be used to
store structured data. NoSQL databases like
MongoDB are used for unstructured or semi-
structured data.
File Systems: Information can be stored in various file
formats like text, PDF, or specialized formats like
DICOM for medical imaging.

72. Storage
Blockchain: Emerging technology that offers
secure and immutable storage, often used
for sensitive medical records.
Archival Storage: For long-term storage
needs, techniques such as data
compression or the use of long-lasting
storage media are employed.
Redundancy: Backup systems, often in
multiple locations, ensure data is not lost
due to hardware failures.
Security: Encryption and secure access
protocols are used to protect data from
unauthorized access or alteration.

73. Retrieval
Search Engines: Custom-built or off-the-
shelf search engines can index the stored
data to make retrieval quick and accurate.
Query Languages: SQL or other query
languages can be used to retrieve specific
data from structured databases.
Metadata Tagging: Data can be tagged
with relevant metadata to facilitate easy
identification and retrieval.
Caching: Frequently accessed data can be
cached for quicker retrieval.

74. Retrieval
APIs: Application Programming Interfaces can be
developed to allow different software systems to
interact with the storage system for data retrieval.
User Interfaces: Web-based or application-based
interfaces can be designed for human users to
search and retrieve information easily.
Machine Learning Algorithms: Advanced
algorithms can predict what data might be needed
next and pre-fetch it to improve retrieval times.
Version Control: Systems like Git can track
changes and allow retrieval of previous versions
of data.

75. Challenges
Ensuring the data remains unaltered during storage
and retrieval.
As data volumes grow, storage and retrieval systems
must be able to scale to meet demand.
High-quality storage and retrieval systems can be
expensive to implement and maintain.
Especially in healthcare, compliance with regulations
like HIPAA in the United States or GDPR in Europe is
crucial for both storage and retrieval.
For real-time applications, reducing the time it takes to
retrieve data can be critical.
Over time, the data format may become obsolete and
must be migrated to newer formats.

76. Patient Counseling Overview

77. What is
Patient
Counseling
The process where healthcare
professionals provide information to
patients about medications. Covers details
on prescribed drugs, side effects,
interactions, dosage, and more.

78. Steps in
Patient
Counseling
Introduction:
Establish rapport,
make the patient
comfortable.
Assessment:
Understand
patient's
knowledge on
illness &
medication.
Information
Provision: Provide
tailored info on the
medication.
Clarification:
Address patient's
questions and
concerns.
Verification:
Ensure patient's
understanding.
Conclusion:
Summarize
session, provide
written materials.
Documentation:
Record details in
medical records.

79. Special
Cases in
Counseling
Polypharmacy: More in-depth counseling due to
multiple medications.
Pediatric and Geriatric Populations: Specific dosing
and concerns.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Discuss potential risks &
benefits.
Limited Literacy or Language: Use additional
resources for understanding.
Chronic Conditions: Continuous monitoring &
education.
High-Risk Medications: Thorough counseling on risks
& benefits.
New Medications: Comprehensive information on new
therapy.
Adherence Issues: Address reasons and offer
solutions.

80. The primary goal of patient counseling is to empower the patient with
knowledge, promote adherence, and ensuring the safe and effective use of
medications.

81. Education and Training Program
in the Hospital

82. Role of
Pharmacists in
Education and
Training Program
H OW PH AR MAC ISTS C AN H ELP
TO PR EVEN T MED IC ATION
ERRORS AND IMPROVE
PATIEN T OU TC OMES

83. Role of
Pharmacist
They can provide training to
nurses, doctors, and other
healthcare professionals on the
safe and effective use of
medications.
They can also educate patients
on how to take their medications
properly and identify and report
any adverse drug reactions.

84. Role of
Pharmacist
However, some everyday activities that
pharmacists may participate in include:
• Developing and delivering training programs on
medication safety and use
• Providing one-on-one counseling to patients on
their medications
• Participating in rounds with physicians and
nurses to discuss patient medication regimens
• Researching medication safety and use
• Developing and implementing policies and
procedures for medication management

85. Internal training
programs
Internal training programs are designed for
hospital staff, such as nurses, doctors, and
pharmacists. These programs typically focus on
topics related to patient care, such as
medication safety, infection control, and clinical
procedures.
Internal training programs can be delivered in
various ways, such as through lectures,
workshops, and online modules.

86. External training
programs
Outside organizations, such as universities and
professional associations, offer external training
programs.
These programs typically focus on more
specialized topics, such as new medical
technologies or leadership skills.
Hospital staff and healthcare professionals from
other organizations can attend external training
programs.

87. Benefits of both
internal and external
training programs
Improved patient care: By training on the latest
evidence-based practices, hospitals can help
ensure patients receive the best care.
Increased staff knowledge and skills: Training
can help staff stay up-to-date on the latest field
developments and improve their skills.
Reduced risk of errors: Training can help
reduce the risk of medical errors, improving
patient safety.
Improved job satisfaction: Training can help
staff feel more confident and competent in
their roles, leading to improved job
satisfaction.

88. Services to the
nursing
homes/clinics,
Hospitals offer a variety of education
and training programs to their staff, as
well as to the community.
These programs can cover many
topics, from patient care to clinical
procedures to leadership skills.

89. Some of the
specific
education
and training
programs
that hospitals
may offer
Medication safety training teaches staff how to safely administer
medications, prevent medication errors, and manage drug
allergies.
Infection control training teaches staff how to prevent the spread
of infection, such as handwashing techniques and how to clean
and disinfect equipment.
Clinical procedures training teaches staff how to perform specific
procedures, such as taking blood samples or inserting IVs.
Leadership training teaches staff how to be influential leaders,
such as motivating and inspiring others, making decisions, and
managing conflict.
Patient education training teaches staff how to educate patients
about their health conditions and medications.
Quality improvement training teaches staff how to identify and
improve areas of the hospital that need improvement.

90. Hospitals
also offer
more
general
education
and training
programs
New employee orientation introduces
new employees to the hospital and
its policies and procedures.
Continuing education provides staff
with opportunities to learn about new
developments in their field.
On-the-job training provided to staff
as they learn new skills or
procedures.

91. Hospitals may also offer
education and training
programs to the
community
First aid training provides basic first aid in
an emergency.
CPR training to perform CPR on someone
who is not breathing or has no pulse.
AED training to use an automated external
defibrillator (AED) to shock someone in
cardiac arrest.
Parenting classes teach parents about child
development and parenting skills.
Health education classes teach people
about various health topics, such as
nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention.

92. Code of
Ethics for
Community
Pharmacy
A S E T O F P R I N C I P L E S A N D
G U I D E L I N E S T O G U I D E
T H E B E H A V I O R A N D
D E C I S I O N - M A K I N G O F
P H A R M A C I S T S

93. Key
components
of a code of
ethics for
community
pharmacy
Patient-centered
care
Integrity
Professional
competence
Respect
Collaboration
Ethical business
practices
Patient
advocacy
Confidentiality
Professional
responsibility

94. Patient-
centered
care
Pharmacists should prioritize the
well-being and safety of patients.
This includes providing accurate
drug information, ensuring patient
confidentiality, and actively
involving patients in their
healthcare decisions.

95. Integrity
Pharmacists should maintain
honesty and integrity in all
professional interactions.
This includes ensuring the
accuracy of medication labeling
and dispensing, as well as
avoiding conflicts of interest.

96. Profession
al
competenc
e
Pharmacists should continuously
update their knowledge and
skills to provide the best possible
care to patients.
This involves staying informed
about new medications, drug
interactions, and healthcare
guidelines.

97. Respect
Pharmacists should treat all
individuals with respect and dignity,
regardless of their background,
beliefs, or medical conditions.

98. Collaboration
Pharmacists should
collaborate with
other healthcare
providers to
optimize patient
care and outcomes.
This includes
effective
communication and
teamwork.

99. Ethical business
practices
In a community pharmacy, ethical
business practices involve fair
pricing, transparent billing, and
avoiding rules prioritizing profit over
patient well-being.

100. Patient advocacy
Pharmacists should advocate
for patient’s rights, including
access to appropriate
medications and healthcare
services.

101. Confidentiality
Pharmacists must maintain the
confidentiality of patient information,
adhering to privacy laws and
regulations.

102. Professional
responsibility
Pharmacists are responsible for
reporting unethical behavior and
adhering to all applicable laws and
regulations.

103. Pharmacist's Role in
Healthcare
INTERDEPARTMENTAL COMMUNICATION AND
C OMMU N ITY H EALTH ED U C ATION

104. Role of
Pharmacists in
Interdepartment
al
Communication
Medication Management
Medication Safety
Treatment Optimization
Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting
Medication Reconciliation
Drug Information Resource

105. Medication
Manageme
nt
Pharmacists are medication
experts and often serve as a bridge
between different departments
regarding medication-related
issues.
They communicate with
physicians, nurses, and other
healthcare professionals to ensure
accurate prescribing, dispensing,
and administration of medications.

106. Medication Safety
Pharmacists actively engage in patient
safety initiatives. They report and
address medication errors, collaborate
with the pharmacy and therapeutics
committee, and communicate safety
concerns to relevant departments to
prevent adverse drug events.

107. Treatment Optimization
Pharmacists provide valuable input during
interdisciplinary rounds, discussing patient
treatment plans. They can suggest alternative
medications, dosages, or routes of
administration to optimize therapy based on
patient needs and clinical evidence.

108. Adverse Drug Reaction
Reporting
Pharmacists play a vital role in
identifying and reporting adverse drug
reactions. This information is crucial for
coordinating patient care and updating
treatment plans.

109. Medication
Reconciliation
Pharmacists ensure accurate
medication reconciliation during patient
transitions between different
departments (e.g., admission,
discharge). They communicate
medication changes effectively to
prevent medication discrepancies.

110. Drug Information
Resource
Pharmacists serve as a resource for drug
information, answering questions and
providing guidance to healthcare
professionals in various departments. They
help ensure that the most current and
evidence-based information is available to
inform treatment decisions.

111. Role of
Pharmacist
s in
Community
Health
Education
Medication Counseling
Health Promotion
Medication Reviews
Chronic Disease Management

112. Medication Counselling
Pharmacists educate patients about
their medications in community
pharmacies, including proper usage,
potential side effects, and adherence
strategies. They play a vital role in
promoting medication safety and
adherence.

113. Health Promotion
Pharmacists engage in public
health initiatives, such as
vaccination clinics, smoking
cessation programs, and
screenings for chronic
conditions like diabetes and
hypertension. They educate the
community about preventive
health measures.

114. Medication Reviews
Pharmacists conduct medication therapy
reviews, helping patients better understand
their medication regimens. They provide
recommendations for optimizing medication
use and addressing potential issues.

115. Chronic Disease Management
Pharmacists educate patients with chronic conditions on
self-management strategies, lifestyle modifications, and
medication management. They promote healthy
behaviors to improve overall health outcomes.

116. Community Outreach
Pharmacists participate in community outreach programs,
workshops, and health fairs, providing information on
various health topics, including medication safety,
immunizations, and healthy living.

117. Medication Disposal
Pharmacists educate the community about safe
medication disposal to prevent the misuse of medications
and environmental contamination.

118. Access to Care
Pharmacists may assist underserved populations by
providing information on low-cost medication options,
assistance programs, and resources for accessing healthcare
services.

119. Health Literacy
Pharmacists promote health literacy by explaining medical
terminology in plain language and ensuring patients
understand their health conditions and treatment plans.

120. Interpreting Prescribed
Medication Orders and Legal
Requirements
EN SU R IN G SAFE MED IC ATION
AD MIN ISTR ATION

121. Introduction
Interpreting and fulfilling a
prescribed medication order is a
critical responsibility in
healthcare.
Medication errors can have
severe consequences for patients,
so healthcare providers must
follow specific legal and ethical
requirements to ensure the safe
and accurate administration of
medications.

122. Prescription
Details
When interpreting a medication
order, healthcare professionals
need to review the prescription
for essential information. This
includes the patient's name,
date of birth, and identification
number to ensure the
medication is intended for the
correct individual.

123. Medication Name
Verify the name of the
medication on the order. Ensure
that it is legible and corresponds
to a known drug. If there is any
doubt or confusion about the
drug name, consult with the
prescriber for clarification.

124. Dosage
Check the prescribed dosage
carefully, including the strength and
concentration of the medication.
Ensure the ordered dose is
appropriate for the patient's
condition, age, weight, and other
relevant factors.

125. Route of
Administration
Confirm the intended route of
administration (e.g., oral,
intravenous, intramuscular) as
specified in the order.

126. Frequency and
Duration
Review the instructions for how
often the medication should be
administered and the duration
of treatment. Ensure that the
order is clear and consistent.

127. Allergies and
Contraindicatio
ns
Check the patient's medical records
for known allergies or
contraindications to the prescribed
medication. It is essential to prevent
administering a medication that the
patient is allergic to or that could
harm them due to a contraindication.

128. Legal Requirements
Comply with all federal, state, and
local laws and regulations regarding
medication administration. These
may include requirements for the
documentation of medication
administration, recordkeeping, and
reporting adverse events.

129. Double-
Checking
In many healthcare settings, a
second healthcare professional
(e.g., a nurse or pharmacist) may
double-check the medication order
to ensure accuracy and safety.

130. Communication
If there are any discrepancies or
concerns regarding the medication
order, consult with the prescriber or a
pharmacist for clarification. Effective
communication is crucial to
preventing medication errors.

131. Documentation
Document the medication
administration accurately and by
institutional policies. This includes
recording the date, time, dosage
administered, route, and the
patient's response to the
medication.

132. Patient Education
Provide appropriate education to
the patient about the medication,
including its purpose, potential side
effects, and how to take it as
prescribed.

133. Follow-Up
Monitor the patient's response
to the medication and report
any adverse effects or changes
in the patient's condition
promptly.

134. Failure to follow these steps can
lead to medication errors,
resulting in harm to the patient
and potential legal
consequences for healthcare
providers. Medication errors are
taken very seriously in
healthcare, and efforts are
continually made to improve
medication safety through
protocols, training, and
technology.

135. Communication
skills-
communication
with prescribers
and patients
E F F E C T I V E
C O M M U N I C AT I O N
S K I L L S I N
H E A LT H C A R E

136. Introduction
Practical communication skills are
crucial for healthcare
professionals when interacting
with prescribers (such as
physicians) and patients. Clear
and respectful communication not
only ensures the delivery of safe
and high-quality healthcare but
also helps build trust and positive
relationships.

137. Communication with
Prescribers:
Listen carefully to the prescriber's
instructions and concerns. Ask clarifying
questions if necessary to ensure you
understand their intentions.
Maintain a respectful and professional
demeanor at all times. Address the
prescriber with their appropriate title and
use polite language.
When communicating patient information or
requesting prescriptions, clearly provide
only relevant details. Avoid overwhelming
prescribers with extraneous information.

138. Communication with
Prescribers:
Ensure timely communication, especially
when seeking prescription renewals or
discussing urgent patient matters.
Promote a collaborative approach to patient
care. Discuss treatment options, share your
expertise, and be open to feedback and
suggestions.
Accurately document all prescriber
communications, including phone calls,
emails, and in-person discussions.

139. Communication with
Patients
Show empathy and understanding toward
patients' concerns and feelings. Address
their emotional needs as well as their
medical ones.
Use plain language when explaining
medical information, diagnoses, and
treatment plans. Avoid jargon that patients
may not understand.
Encourage patients to ask questions and
participate in their care. Create an open
and non-judgmental environment where
they feel comfortable sharing their
concerns.
Utilize visual aids, diagrams, or models to
help patients better understand complex

140. Communication with
Patients
Be aware of and sensitive to cultural differences
that may influence a patient's communication
preferences and healthcare decisions.
Clearly explain treatment options, risks, and
benefits, ensuring patients can make informed
decisions about their care.
Respect patients' privacy and confidentiality at all
times. Discuss sensitive information in a private
setting.

141. Communication with
Patients
Ensure patients understand post-visit
instructions, including medications,
follow-up appointments, and any
necessary lifestyle changes.
If conflicts or disagreements arise,
address them calmly and
professionally. Seek resolution through
open communication and, if needed,
involve a mediator or higher authority.
Provide educational materials and
resources to help patients further
understand their conditions and how to
manage them.

142. Remember that effective
communication is ongoing, and
adapting your communication style
to prescribers' and patients' needs
and preferences is essential.
Building strong communication skills
can improve patient outcomes and
more successful collaborations with
healthcare colleagues.