patient counseling

What is the purpose of patient counseling according to NYS law?

To provide patient education before dispensing medications.

When must a pharmacist provide counseling to a new patient?

Before dispensing a medication to a new patient of the pharmacy.

What triggers the need for counseling on existing prescriptions?

If the dose, strength, route of administration, or directions for use has changed.

What must be offered every time a patient has a prescription refilled?

An offer to provide counseling.

Who can make the offer to counsel a patient?

Any member of the pharmacy staff.

What is considered a 'new' prescription?

A prescription that has not been taken by the patient for at least 90 days.

What is required for mail order and Internet pharmacies regarding counseling?

A written offer and a toll-free number for counseling must be provided.

What role does a pharmacist play in patient counseling?

They act as a translator, simplifying complex medical information for patients.

What are the three PRIME questions in patient counseling?

1. What were you told the medication is for? 2. How were you told to take this medication? 3. What were you told to expect?

What are the Show and Tell questions used for?

To assess understanding during refills, such as asking what the patient is taking the medication for.

What is the purpose of the final verification step in patient counseling?

To confirm the patient's understanding of how to take the medication.

What should a pharmacist do to identify the patient?

Verify the patient's name, date of birth, and/or address.

What is the first step in conducting an interactive patient consultation?

Collect patient information.

What type of information should be collected about the drug?

Drug name, description, indications, dosage form, route of administration, and duration of therapy.

What common side effects should be discussed with patients?

Severe side effects, adverse effects, interactions, and contraindications.

What should patients be informed about regarding missed doses?

Actions to be taken in the event of a missed dose.

What is the importance of confidentiality in patient education?

All healthcare practitioners are required to provide education in a confidential manner.

What are the appropriate methods of questioning in patient counseling?

Use open-ended questions for exploration and closed-ended questions for specific information.

How can a pharmacist ensure effective verbal counseling?

By considering both how they say it and what they say.

What resources can be used for collecting drug information?

Manufacturer websites, DailyMed, Micromedex, and Lexicomp.

What is the significance of using layman terms in patient counseling?

To ensure that patients can easily understand the information provided.

What should be included in the counseling about storage of medications?

Proper storage instructions for the medication.

What is the role of the pharmacist during the counseling process?

To provide information that helps patients use medications safely and effectively.

What should a pharmacist do if a patient has concerns?

Start the counseling by asking if they have any concerns.

What are the three categories of adverse drug reactions (ADR)?

Common, Serious, and Rare

What should patients be educated about regarding ADRs?

The need for follow-up appointments to monitor for adverse reactions and side effects.

What should patients do if they experience a serious allergic reaction?

Stop the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

What is the standard practice if a patient misses a dose?

Take it as soon as remembered unless it's almost time for the next dose, then skip it.

What should patients do if they develop a rash or swelling after taking medication?

Stop the medication and get medical attention right away.

What is the importance of verbal counseling?

It relies on the abilities of the counselor and the patient's ability to hear and understand.

What is the difference between closed-ended and open-ended questions?

Closed-ended questions limit responses; open-ended questions encourage more detailed answers.

What are some examples of open-ended question starters?

Who, How, Why, When, Where, What

What is the purpose of reflecting responses in patient counseling?

To acknowledge patients' feelings and clarify barriers.

How can a pharmacist paraphrase a patient's statement effectively?

By repeating what the patient said in their own words without adding personal opinion.

What percentage of information do students learn by verbalizing and demonstrating?

90% of what they verbalize as they demonstrate.

What are some barriers to effective patient counseling?

Functional barriers, emotional barriers, and communication barriers arising from the pharmacy environment.

What should be done if a patient is unable to understand written counseling?

Provide verbal counseling to clarify information.

What is the recommended storage temperature for medications?

Controlled Room Temperature: 15°C - 25°C (59°F - 77°F)

What should you do with medications that have been removed from their original packaging?

Keep them away from direct heat and sunlight, and be aware that expiration dates may change.

What is the significance of practicing communication skills in patient counseling?

It helps improve the effectiveness of the counseling process.

What should a pharmacist do when saying 'no' to a patient?

Be specific, convey compassion, and remain positive and factual.

What is the role of body language in patient counseling?

It includes eye contact, posture, tone of voice, and facial expressions, which can impact communication.

What are some examples of emotional barriers that patients may face?

Anger, sadness, fear, depression, embarrassment, distraction, arrogance, and suspicion.

What is a key strategy for success in patient counseling?

Practice, practice, practice.