Dec 7 2017
Clinical Pharmacology Programs
Many people are familiar with the retail pharmacist behind the desk at a drug store. He or she fills prescriptions and answers questions about medication bought over-the-counter. There is a slightly different role for those who complete clinical pharmacology programs. They are known as clinical pharmacists who work in a healthcare setting with other medical professionals to coordinate patients’ medications.
What Does a Clinical Pharmacist Do?
A clinical pharmacist not only collaborates with doctors, but they also interact directly with patients and make decisions about which medications are best. Some of their duties may also include:
- Assessing health problems
- Evaluating the progress and effectiveness of prescribed medications
- Consulting with doctors and other healthcare providers on medication therapy for patients
- Instructing patients on taking their medications
- Using specialized knowledge of drug interactions and adverse effects to develop proper medication therapy
A clinical pharmacist may perform clinical trials before dispensing certain prescriptions. Some may also develop drug-related policies and determine guidelines for different prescriptions.
They might also evaluate outcomes after dispensing prescriptions in counsel with patients to ensure they understand the benefits and risks of drug therapies.
Educational Path for Becoming a Clinical Pharmacist
Becoming a clinical pharmacist requires a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and work experience in a hospital. Anyone pursuing this career first receives a bachelor’s degree. While some pharmacological schools do not specify the type of degree, most students will complete an undergraduate degree in a science field.
A fundamental knowledge in the sciences such as biology or chemistry is very helpful to enter advanced training programs. Getting a good score on the Pharmacy College Admissions test is another minimum requirement to working in this field.
Pharmacy programs can take an additional four years where students take a deep dive into medicines for which they will prescribe, monitor and study.
Continuing Educational Requirements
Typically, states require practicing pharmacists to participate in continuing education programs. These programs help to ensure pharmacists retain the most up-to-date information about administering medications. Any changes will affect how the pharmacists serve patients.
Becoming a member in a professional organization helps pharmacists stay abreast of changes that effect what is necessary to keep their license.
This particular field of pharmacy gives professionals a chance to care for patients in different healthcare settings. Working with patient service providers, clinical pharmacists meet the needs of patients. They optimize the effectiveness of medication therapy by promoting health, wellness and prevention of disease.
Jun 13 2018
There Is A Way To Let Your Elder Parents Stay In Their Home
At some point, everyone must come to terms with the fact that their parents are no longer able to care for themselves. Whether this is due to a physical medical condition or mental degeneration, the truth is that elders eventually can no longer care for themselves without regular assistance or supervision. Even when elders realize this for themselves, they may resist the idea of moving into an assisted living facility.
When it comes time to make a decision about caring for your elder parent, it’s important to involve them in the discussions. This helps them feel as though they have some control in the decision and will make any transition go more smoothly. It also means addressing the issue of what type of care is right for your elder parent. Depending on the status of their mental and physical health, they may not need the constant supervision of a nursing home. Additionally, they may prefer to stay in their own home.
By consulting home health agencies Bethesda MD, you may be able to find a service that will enable your elder parent to remain in their own home. Allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings can help them maintain a positive state of mental health and they’ll be less likely to develop depression and feel anxiety about the changes to their situation. Additionally, living at home and continuing with their daily routines can help elders stave off cognitive degeneration by keeping their minds active.
Home health care services can provide a caregiver who will visit your elder parent or loved one in their home, according to the schedule you establish with the agency. The caregiver will be on hand to help ensure elders are taking proper care of themselves. This includes preparing meals, ensuring proper hygiene, and making sure medication is taken as prescribed. Additionally, the aide can help with some household chores and assist the elder in running errands. This ensures the elder remains functional, while reducing the risk of injury.
The precise duties of the in-home caregiver will depend on the services you request for your elder loved one. Be sure to discuss these terms in detail, so you’ll know what to expect from the service. In addition to providing practical aide and care, an in-home aide can provide companionship to an elder who may not receive visitors very often. This also boosts emotional health and helps strengthen cognitive functioning. The broad range of benefits provided by a home health care service help to keep your elder parent happy and healthy in their own home.
By admin • Health Care • • Tags: care, medical condition, medication, nursing home, physical health, surroundings