A13 Medicines optimisation

Question 1

what are the 4 principles of medicines optimisation?

Answer 1

• aim to understand the patient’s experiences
• evidence-based choice of medicines
• ensure medicines use is as safe as possible
• make medicines optimisation part of routine practice

Question 2

describe the principle of medicines optimisation: aim to understand the patient’s experience. give 2 examples

Answer 2

• listen to how the patient feels about their disease and treatment
• have a dialogue
• more likely to uncover their thoughts and doubts by doing this
• eg. if they struggle with sight they may need larger print labels
• eg. may be told to take a medicine with breakfast but they don’t eat breakfast

Question 3

describe the principle of medicines optimisation: evidence-based choice of medicines

Answer 3

• ensure we are completely up to date as pharmacists
• make sure you use the most recent guidelines
• if you’re not sure, just check

Question 4

describe the principle of medicines optimisation: ensure medicines use is as safe as possible

Answer 4

• inform patients on key counselling points for administering formulations
• make sure patients are clear on all aspects of their medicines, old and new
• storage of medicines (KOOSAROC)

Question 5

describe the principle of medicines optimisation: make medicines optimisation part of routine practice

Answer 5

• not just when supplying a medicine to a patient but make it part of your practice
• constantly check with patients and ask if they have any questions as they come into the pharmacy