Two Examples of Student Placement Tasks: Drug Use Evaluations

Background: Experiential clinical placement is a compulsory component of the pharmacy course at Charles Sturt University. The Rural Pharmacy Practice subject, in addition to addressing the National Competency Standards, tasks students to undertake a number of projects during their clinical placements.

Aim: To present 2 examples of student conducted drug use evaluations where the outcomes of the activities were perceived to have benefited the placement site.

Method: This was an observational study involving 2 student projects considered to be of benefit by the placement sites. Both studies investigated adherence to local guidelines to inform optimal patient care.

Results: Project 1 evaluated intravenous versus oral paracetamol use and concluded that the prescribing guidelines for intravenous paracetamol were adhered to in around 50% of cases. Project 2 evaluated OxyContin (oxycodone) use and concluded that oxycodone dosages prescribed complied with guidelines. However, the treatment regimens of around 35% of patients assessed could be improved by using non‐opioid analgesics, such as paracetamol.

Conclusion: Student placement projects, such as drug use evaluations, represent an excellent way for students to benefit the clinical placement site.