Pharmacy Profession Research Articles

[Artículo traducido] Entrevista telemática en telefarmacia: documento de consenso para el seguimiento farmacoterapéutico y la entrega informada de medicamentos

Telepharmacy is defined as the practice of remote pharmaceutical care, using information and communication technologies. Given its growing importance in outpatient pharmaceutical care, the Spanish Society of Hospital Pharmacy developed a consensus document, Guía de entrevista telemática en atención farmacéutica, as part of its strategy for the development and expansion of telepharmacy, with key recommendations for effective pharmacotherapeutic monitoring and informed dispensing and delivery of medications through telematic interviews.The document was developed by a working group of hospital pharmacists with experience in the field. It highlights the benefits of telematic interviewing for patients, hospital pharmacy professionals, and the healthcare system as a whole, reviews the various tools for conducting telematic interviews, and provides recommendations for each phase of the interview. These recommendations cover aspects such as tool/platform selection, patient selection, obtaining authorization and consent, assessing technological skills, defining objectives and structure, scheduling appointments, reviewing medical records, and ensuring humane treatment.Telematic interview is a valuable complement to face-to-face consultations but its novelty requires a strategic and formal framework that this consensus document aims to cover. The use of appropriate communication tools and compliance with recommended procedures ensure patient safety and satisfaction. By implementing telematic interviews, healthcare institutions can improve patient care, optimize the use of resources and promote continuity of care.

Ethical considerations and concerns in the implementation of AI in pharmacy practice: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIntegrating artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare has raised significant ethical concerns. In pharmacy practice, AI offers promising advances but also poses ethical challenges.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in countries from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region on 501 pharmacy professionals. A 12-item online questionnaire assessed ethical concerns related to the adoption of AI in pharmacy practice. Demographic factors associated with ethical concerns were analyzed via SPSS v.27 software using appropriate statistical tests.ResultsParticipants expressed concerns about patient data privacy (58.9%), cybersecurity threats (58.9%), potential job displacement (62.9%), and lack of legal regulation (67.0%). Tech-savviness and basic AI understanding were correlated with higher concern scores (p < 0.001). Ethical implications include the need for informed consent, beneficence, justice, and transparency in the use of AI.ConclusionThe findings emphasize the importance of ethical guidelines, education, and patient autonomy in adopting AI. Collaboration, data privacy, and equitable access are crucial to the responsible use of AI in pharmacy practice.

An Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Clinical Trial in Rural Alabama: Project Design and Potential Implications for Pharmacy and Audiology Interprofessional Collaborations.

Over-the-counter hearing aids (OTC HAs) have the potential to help adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss across the US, especially in rural communities, where access to hearing healthcare is extremely limited or non-existent. The purpose of this study was to describe an OTC HA clinical trial being conducted in five rural counties of Alabama and to provide preliminary anecdotal data related to the use and care of these hearing aids by the participants. In brief, for this clinical trial, adults with hearing loss were randomly placed in one of three groups where they received varying levels of support for setting, using, and maintaining their OTC HAs. Listening tests and surveys were administered to assess the extent to which they benefitted from the hearing aids as related to word understanding, communication with others in natural settings, and hearing aid use and care. Currently, anecdotal findings suggested that, although some participants required very little support to successfully use their hearing aids, others had difficulty setting and caring for their devices and could have benefitted from individualized guidance. Future quantitative studies will assess the extent of support needed for successful hearing aid benefit and use. Potentially, collaborations among pharmacy and audiology professionals could lead to increased access to hearing healthcare by supporting the use and purchase of OTC HAs in rural pharmacy settings.

Pharmacy students' knowledge, perceptions, and satisfaction in a nutrition course

Background and purposeLittle is known about nutrition education in pharmacy programs. This study reports on the outcomes assessment of pharmacy students' knowledge, perceptions, and satisfaction in a clinical nutrition course. Educational activity and settingA 2-credit required course in clinical nutrition and diet therapy provides third-year professional pharmacy students with knowledge on various diet and nutrition topics. These relate to nutrition concepts in health and disease, the prevention and treatment of diet- and nutrition-related health conditions, and enteral and parenteral nutrition. FindingsBetween the academic years 2012 and 2021, 720 students were enrolled in the course. Direct assessment data were collected from 227 students, and indirect assessment data from 173 students. On average, 85.7% of students acquired the necessary knowledge on all 23 course learning objectives. Average course evaluation ratings by students on a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree = 1; disagree = 2; somewhat agree = 3; agree = 4; strongly agree = 5) were high (4.43). High ratings were also recorded for students' satisfaction with the course structure (4.46) and teaching effectiveness (4.39). Students appreciated the clear presentation of the course learning objectives, requirements, and teaching effectiveness. They also acknowledged the quality of the learning experience and the course's relevance to pharmacy. DiscussionStudents highly rated the course in achieving its learning objectives in addition to their satisfaction with its content, structure, delivery, and relevance to pharmacy education and practice. Furthermore, the course content addressed the accreditation requirements for nutrition education and covered the topics listed in the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) Pharmacotherapy Didactic Curriculum Toolkits. SummaryThe clinical nutrition and diet therapy course was well received. Educating pharmacy students on diet and nutrition prepares graduates for expanding their role in these domains in the community, hospital and clinical practice settings.

The misuse of codeine containing medicines: Perceptions and behaviours of qualified pharmacy professionals.

Pharmacy professionals working in community pharmacies frequently provide pharmacist-initiated therapy, including codeine-containing medicines. Codeine is an opioid with great potential for misuse, adding to the global opioid epidemic burden. Professional pharmacy personnel are the first intervention point in relation to management of codeine use. This study highlights the importance of pharmacy professionals' perceptions and behaviours in combatting the opioid epidemic. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Simple random sampling included pharmacy professionals in the metropolitan city of Johannesburg. An electronic questionnaire was distributed via e-mail and data analysed descriptively. Findings indicate that pharmacy personnel routinely ask patients about codeine use (n= 48; 53.9%), avoid dispensing over-the-counter (OTC) codeine as an initial treatment (n= 61; 69%) and express confidence to identify and manage codeine misuse (n= 69; 77.5%). Despite this, increased patient demands for OTC codeine (n= 69; 77.5%) were concerning, highlighting the ease of availability from internet sources (n= 76; 85.4%) and multiple pharmacies (n= 84; 94.4%). Apprehension about the lack of patient awareness on adverse health consequences (n= 66; 74.2%) and the risk of codeine dependence (n= 79; 88.8%) was expressed. Growing concern regarding availability and accessibility of codeine-containing medicines within the community pharmacy sector is highlighted. Adverse health consequences of codeine misuse and dependence are not understood by customers and the ineffective information provided by pharmacy personnel was highlighted as a concern.Contribution:The results of this study give insight to the influence of dispensing personnel's attitude towards the growing challenges with respect to codeine containing medication abuse.

Adherence to Infection Prevention Practice Standard Protocol and Associated Factors Among Healthcare Workers.

Healthcare-associated infection affects more than 100 million patients annually. Healthcare workers' poor adherence to standard infection prevention and control procedures can result in many negative consequences, ranging from disability to death. A facility-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2021 among 379 healthcare workers selected using a stratified random sampling technique. All types of healthcare providers except pharmacy professionals were included in the study. Standardization and validation of the study tool were performed ahead of data collection. Multivariable regression was used to assess the variables associated with adherence. The study found that 60.2% of healthcare workers (95% CI, 55.1-65.2) had good adherence to infection prevention practices, and 68.7% and good knowledge of infection prevention practices. Training on infection prevention methods (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.68; 95% CI, 1.04-2.72), availability of water supply at hand washing station (AOR = 2.90; 95% CI, 1.62-5.31), and attitude toward infection prevention (AOR = 2.64; 95% CI, 1.65-4.24) were identified as predictors of adherence to infection prevention and control procedures. More than half of the participants had good adherence to infection prevention guideline practices. In-service infection prevention training, a consistent water supply at the hand washing station, and a positive attitude of participants were associated with good adherence to infection prevention practices.

Evaluation of factors affecting pharmacists and pharmacy technicians' satisfaction towards practicing CE activities in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundContinuing education (CE) is an essential requirement for pharmacy professionals to stay abreast with the evolving knowledge and skills of the practice and meet the regulatory mandate. The purpose of this research is to assess factors affecting the satisfaction of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians towards CE practices in Saudi Arabia. Material and methodsA self-administered survey instrument was developed following an extensive literature search. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: participants’ demographics, data on CE activities over the past year and overall satisfaction, and statements of barriers (14 items) and facilitators (12 items) for participation in CE activities (scored on a 5-point Likert scale (5 = always, 1 = never)). The survey was piloted and then distributed as a link through the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties and Saudi Pharmaceutical Society (SPS) between Jan 2018 and Feb 2019. ResultsData was available on 398 pharmacists and 40 pharmacy technicians (completion rate was 55 %). The majority were practitioners, male, working in a hospital setting and had more than five years of practice experience. Half of the participants were from the Central Region and about one-third were non-Saudi. Only a quarter of the participants were satisfied/very satisfied with the current CE practices in Saudi Arabia. Job constraints (62.7 %), cost (55.9 %), schedule of CE activities (55.4 %), lack of information on CE opportunities (53 %) and professional burnout (49.7 %) were the top barriers. There was a significant level of dissatisfaction among pharmacy technicians when compared to pharmacists (p = 0.003), as well as among Saudi pharmacists when compared to non-Saudi pharmacists (p = 0.002). Lack of relevant CE activities (p = 0.05), lack of quality activities (p = 0.002), lack of recognition (p = 0.013) and lack of internet access (p = 0.006) were significantly more barriers for pharmacy technicians compared to pharmacists. The most identified facilitators to engage in CE activities were a personal desire to learn (78.4 %), the requirement to maintain a professional license (73.8 %) and relaxation provided by learning (58.5 %) and networking opportunities (53.4 %). The majority of the participants preferred conferences or interactive workshops, short CE over half a day or less, and the topic of disease management/drug therapy. ConclusionThe findings of the study highlight the need for a partnership strategy that includes various stakeholders to improve CE program quality and accessibility that supports and promotes the professional development of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in Saudi Arabia. It also underscores the importance of meeting the preferences of pharmacy practitioners when designing CE programs and aligning such activities with their practices.

Pharmacy Students’ Readiness for Offline Learning in The New Normal Transmission of COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Pharmacy students consist of undergraduate and professional pharmacy students. They are candidates for future pharmacist health workers who require practical experience. Offline learning with hands-on practice methods in health facilities supports their professional skills. Objective: This study aimed to determine pharmacy students' knowledge and attitude toward implementing offline learning methods during the new normal era. Methods: This study involved pharmacy students from Indonesia who were asked to participate in an e-questionnaire about the vaccination program, COVID-19 health protocols, pharmacist competence, and attitude toward implementing offline learning. The students' scores were based on their knowledge and attitude. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the scores between the two groups, and a correlation test was conducted to assess the relationship between the students' knowledge and attitudes. Results: A total of 652 pharmacy students were divided into two groups, undergraduate and professional pharmacy students, in a 3:1 ratio. About 74.6% of undergraduate students and 78.5% of professional pharmacy students had good and moderate knowledge. The level of knowledge was not different between the two groups (p=0.602; p&gt;α). Professional pharmacy students were more ready to engage in offline learning compared to undergraduate students (p=0.001; p&lt;α). However, there was a relatively low correlation between knowledge and attitudes, with r = 0.079 (p=0.043; p&lt;α). Conclusion: Professional pharmacy students are more ready for offline learning methods than undergraduate students, particularly in hands-on field practice.

Reflexivity in pharmacy practice qualitative research: systematic review of twelve peer-reviewed journals

Abstract Introduction Reflexivity is named as an important component for establishing trustworthiness and authenticity within qualitative research. Depending on the philosophical stance of the researcher, subjectivity is often intertwined with qualitative research, thus engagement in reflexivity accounts for how this subjectivity shapes the study and aids to increase its rigor. Walsh’s typology[1] proposed personal, interpersonal, methodological, and contextual dimensions of reflexivity, which are overlapping and interacting, and was endorsed by the International Association for Medical Education (AMEE).[2] As pharmacy professionals conducting research, we bring many aspects (personal and professional experiences, beliefs, values) that can help us develop deeper and richer insights into our work; if not considered through reflexivity, this may have unrealised impacts which can bring the findings under scrutiny. Aim This systematic review aimed to explore reflexivity reporting, type, and strategies in qualitative studies published in peer-reviewed pharmacy journals. Methods Two reviewers screened twelve pharmacy related peer-reviewed journals from inception to 1st August 2023 for qualitative studies; these were identified as the ‘top’ pharmacy practice journals in JANE (Journal/Author Name Estimator). Then, studies were independently reviewed against inclusion criteria. Any disagreements were discussed to reach a consensus. Qualitative studies discussing reflexivity, having dedicated reflexivity sections in the manuscript, or providing quality checklists with reflexivity were included. Quantitative, mixed methods, and educational research studies were excluded. Two reviewers completed data extraction: reflexivity methods, where discussed in the paper and to what extent, and type of reflexivity as per Walsh’s typology to determine the dimension of reflexivity.[1] Data were synthesised narratively. Quality appraisal of study conduct was not completed and all eligible papers were included. Results 452 qualitative studies were reviewed and 102 were included from seven journals. Thirty-four studies provided quality checklists and 18 had personal (n=10), interpersonal (n=2), methodological (n=1), or multi-type (n=5) reflexivity. In the remaining 68 articles, reflexivity was personal (n=20), interpersonal (n=3), methodological (n=16), multi-type (n=28), or unclear (n=1). Where reflexivity was presented, it was mostly reported in the manuscript’s methods section or within limitations sections of discussions; some had reflexivity named sections. However, reviewed studies lacked true reflexive comments, and often descriptions of research team backgrounds were provided without consideration of the impact on the study, or the focus was on minimising study bias. Twelve studies alluded to the use of reflexive diaries, journals, or note sheets but lacked detail in how they were implemented. Conclusion This is the first systematic review, to our best knowledge, focused on reflexivity reporting in pharmacy practice qualitative studies. It highlighted that reflexivity reporting was poor, often misunderstood, and use of the quality checklist did not increase appropriate reporting. Reflexivity was often described as something researchers ‘did’ to minimise bias, rather than something to embrace and explore as part of qualitative research process. We posit that this could be due to a lack of understanding of what true reflexivity is, unclear quality checklist instructions and limited potential to include it meaningfully in the final manuscript. The review was limited to twelve pharmacy practice journals and articles published in English.

Why get involved? A cross-sectional survey of factors that influence student pharmacist membership in professional organizations

IntroductionUnderstanding factors that motivate and deter student pharmacists from joining professional pharmacy organizations may assist schools and organizations in determining ways to recruit, engage, and support the next generation of pharmacy professionals. The objective is to identify motivating and hindering factors related to student pharmacist membership in professional pharmacy organizations. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was sent to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Student Services Personnel community members for distribution to student pharmacists at their respective schools. The survey collected demographic data, determined the extent of student membership and leadership involvement within professional organizations, and assessed factors that motivate and deter student pharmacist membership in organizations. Results467 students completed the survey. Seventy percent indicated they are currently involved in one or more pharmacy organizations. Final-year students were less likely to join organizations than other professional years (p < 0.001). Women (p = 0.001) were more likely to join and hold leadership positions, as were younger-aged students (p = 0.001) and those living on or near campus (p = 0.049). Opportunities for professional development was the highest-ranked factor motivating students to join a professional organization, and the time required for participation was the highest-ranked hindering factor. ConclusionNumerous factors affect student pharmacists' decisions to join professional pharmacy organizations. This information may assist in determining ways to recruit and engage students starting early in their pharmacy education. It may be prudent to redefine student engagement within professional organizations, especially in the context of new generations of students.

Challenges and opportunities: landscape of pharmacy profession in Brazil

Challenges and opportunities: landscape of pharmacy profession in Brazil

Bridging the theory-practice gap in pharmacy education using an authentic learning approach: A cross-sectional study

Background: Authentic learning environments highlight real-world relevance to students, contributing to readiness for practice. This study evaluated the impact of an educational activity on student pharmacist learning and personal/professional development. Methods: An activity similar to that used by practising pharmacy professionals to record errors during dispensing was included in simulated community pharmacy workshops delivered to Year-2 students as part of a Professional Practice Module. Students were instructed to complete entries when academic staff identified errors during final accuracy checks. Student evaluation surveys were analysed at the end of terms one and two of the academic year. Descriptive statistics were used for closed questions, and thematic analysis for open-ended responses. Results: Of the 75 student pharmacists who completed both evaluation surveys, 64% (n=48) recorded fewer errors in term two. Respondents considered the exercise helpful in highlighting the need for more attention to detail and identifying negative trends in their dispensing process. A positive response to personal/professional development was noted, with student pharmacists commenting that the activity facilitated reflection. Conclusion: This activity has allowed students to experience real-world working situations, extending their learning experience, facilitating personal/professional development, and encouraging best practices.

Entrustable professional activities-based objective structured clinical examinations in a pharmacy curriculum

Entrustable professional activities-based objective structured clinical examinations in a pharmacy curriculum

Gender balance in Australian pharmacy organisations: Are we there yet?

IntroductionIn the dynamic landscape of healthcare, pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring the well-being of communities, and having solid professional organisations to support pharmacists is essential in crucial activities, including continuing education, advocacy and establishing service standards. Eight pharmacy organisations play vital roles in representing pharmacists in various sectors and collectively contribute to developing, regulating, and promoting the pharmacy profession in Australia. However, a notable lack of female representation in these organisations' leadership roles has led to an increased focus on gender balance and equity. ObjectiveTo determine if the gender distribution in pharmacy leadership aligns with the pharmacy workforce in Australia (64% women) and how it has changed in the five years since our last study on the issue. SettingAustralia. MethodEight key Australian pharmacy organisations were identified. The website for each organisation was accessed, and data were recorded for their 2023 boards/committees/councils based on annual reports. Data recorded include name, number of males, number of females, and the gender of the president/chair of each board/committee/council. ResultsData were obtained for 340 separate professional committee members from the eight organisations (including state/territory branches) in 2023. Gender balance in pharmacy organisations has increased significantly since 2018, with women's representation in leadership positions now at 58% (47% 2018). ConclusionGender equity within Australian pharmacy professional organisations has significantly progressed.

Investigation of the hospital pharmacy profession in Europe

ObjectiveFrom 1995, the European Association of Hospital Pharmacists (EAHP) has regularly investigated the progress of the hospital pharmacy profession in Europe, and identified key barriers and drivers of this. The...

Evaluation of Counterfeit Antimalarial Drug Awareness and Knowledge Among Pharmacy Attendants in Nairobi County, Kenya

Malaria presents a significant health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to an increased demand for antimalarial drugs. However, the global prevalence of counterfeit drugs, estimated at 10%, jeopardizes treatment efficacy, resulting in an annual economic loss of $75 billion. In Kenya, the accessibility of antimalarials, particularly through pharmacies, exacerbates this issue. This study sought to address knowledge gaps on counterfeit antimalarials among pharmacy attendants in Nairobi County. Utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive survey, the research evaluated awareness levels of counterfeit antimalarial drugs among pharmacy attendants. The study involved five subsections, focusing on pharmacy professionals engaged in antimalarial sales, with a sample size of 251 determined using Cochran’s formula. Data collection methods included questionnaires and observation checklists. Instrument validity was ensured through a pre-test analysis, and reliability was assessed via training and a test-retest approach. Data analysis, performed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS, incorporates ANOVA at a 95% significance level. Surveying 251 pharmacy attendants in Nairobi revealed a slightly higher distribution of males (52.2%) than females (47.8%), primarily aged 18-24 (51%), holding TVET qualifications (60.2%), with an average work experience of four years (30.7%). Community pharmacies dominated (61.8%), and pharmaceutical technologists constituted the most prevalent professionals (29.5%). Artemether-Lumefantrine is the preferred antimalarial (36.7%). Concerning awareness of counterfeit drugs, 39.8% rely on the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, with 72.9% knowledgeable about counterfeit antimalarial effects. The study identifies correlations between knowledge levels and the color and odor of antimalarial drugs. The regression model (R²=0.093, F (3, 247) =8.422, p&lt;0.001) signifies the predictive efficacy of drug characteristics on knowledge, with color and odor emerging as robust predictors. Despite commendable knowledge, there exists a perception gap among pharmacy attendants regarding counterfeit antimalarial drug campaigns and awareness training. Addressing this gap is crucial to preventing an increased distribution of counterfeit drugs in the sector.

Intelligent supervision of PIVAS drug dispensing based on image recognition technology.

Pharmacy Intravenous Admixture Services (PIVAS) are places dedicated to the centralized dispensing of intravenous drugs, usually managed and operated by professional pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and are an integral part of modern healthcare. However, the workflow of PIVAS has some problems, such as low efficiency and error-prone. This study aims to improve the efficiency of drug dispensing, reduce the rate of manual misjudgment, and minimize drug errors by conducting an in-depth study of the entire workflow of PIVAS and applying image recognition technology to the drug checking and dispensing process. Firstly, through experimental comparison, a target detection model suitable for drug category recognition is selected in the drug-checking process of PIVAS, and it is improved to improve the recognition accuracy and speed of intravenous drug categories. Secondly, a corner detection model for drug dosage recognition was studied in the drug dispensing stage to further increase drug dispensing accuracy. Then the PIVAS drug category recognition system and PIVAS drug dosage recognition system were designed and implemented.

Adaptation of Research Project Requirement at Pharmacy Undergraduate Studies: Students' Perception, Attitude, and Experiences.

To determine the final year pharmacy undergraduate students' attitudes toward research after completing a research project. A research project was introduced in the final year of the PharmD program in January 2022. After a period of one year, in Janurary 2023, students submitted their final research to the faculty members. The survey was conducted from 1st March to 30st April 2023 using a study tool that contained items asking students' demographic, their research perceptions, attitude and experience, and also motivation/barriers faced during the research project. Descriptive and t-test statistics were utilized to compare the means of subgroups at a level of significance, i.e., p < 0.05. The data were also analyzed using Goodman and Kruskal's gamma and Mann-Whitney U test. Majority of the students (93.8%) agreed regarding the significance of research in the pharmacy profession. Students were found to have their projects a worthwhile learning opportunity (94.2%). Students' motivation to execute research project stems from mandatory curriculum courses, improving clinical or hospital pharmacist training and fulfilling research skills (90%). Barriers hindered include lack of training, time, and patient follow-up (approximately 70%). The current study's finding was concluded with the fact that research is a valuable component of a well-rounded education and can enhance a pharmacist's skills. However, they need a combination of formal education and practical experience to pursue a profession in pharmacy.

The influence of COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pharmacists as frontline health care providers in Nepal

BackgroundDue to COVID-19, pharmacists have been exposed to a variety of dangers that have an impact on their mental health. The study highlights that impact of COVID-19 and work led to burnout among them. Thus, it is necessary to offer mental health services. AimsTo assess the impact of COVID-19 on the work of pharmacy professionals and ascertain the extent of the influence of burnout on mental health among pharmacists working as frontline health providers in Nepal. MethodsPharmacists from Province 2, 3, and 5 in Nepal participated in a self-administered questionnaire that assessed mental health and wellbeing and burnout using 16-item OLBI. Data was collected from January 2023–March 2023. Independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and linear regression were employed to identify any significant connections between burnout and mental health and wellbeing. ResultsOut of 243 participants, COVID-19 pandemic and work was found to have a negative impact on the mental health and wellbeing of a 33.7% of pharmacists. Participants reported having financial issues in 41.6% of cases and 9.5% considered leaving the profession and were concerned about the provision of service quality and making mistakes at work. A strong and meaningful positive relationship and linear regression were observed between exhaustion, disengagement, burnout, mental health and wellbeing. Pharmacists working part-time (p < 0.050) in hospital settings experienced burnout as a result of insufficient training, extended working hours, and stress both on and off the job. ConclusionsPharmacists are to prioritize a healthy work-life balance, which includes avoiding prolonged shifts >8 h, regular physical exercise and promote open communication among colleagues to address workplace concerns.

Seguimiento farmacoterapéutico a pacientes polimedicados

Professional pharmaceutical care services contribute to better health problem control, especially in polymedicated patients, and to the optimization of health resources, which leads to less medication prescription and fewer visits to healthcare centers. This study included 78 patients, with the female sex being the most prevalent, with an average age of 72.49 ± 13.92 years; of these, 60 patients were over 65 years of age and, herefore, considered geriatric patients. They were included in a personalized medication dispensing service and, subsequently, a pharmacotherapeutic follow-up was carried out. 450 medication-related problems were detected, the most frequent of which were associated with the patient: lack of knowledge of use, poor therapeutic adherence, administration errors, etc., with the probability of presenting them being higher in the male sex. Associated with these medication problems, 160 negative medication-related results were detected; only 5 of them were not resolved during the study phase, the most frequent being those of non-quantitative ineffectiveness, that is, those that are not resolved with a modification of the pharmacological dose but by including or eliminating other active ingredients. In conclusion, the personalized medication dispensing service requires a medication review, such as pharmacotherapeutic follow-up, as both allow the optimization of the treatment of polymedicated patients, as well as an increase in the control of health problems. Keywords: SPD; SFT; Community Pharmacy Professional; Pharmaceutical Healthcare Services; Pharmaceutical Care