Abstract
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.
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.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 121-124 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research |
| Volume | 42 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Jun 2012 |
| Externally published | Yes |