Pharmacology and Medicines Optimisation
Focusing on holistic care, and using contemporary theory, discuss how you would collaboratively work with your patient to achieve medicines optimisation; selecting one of the three scenarios provided.
You do not need to write the scenario out here, but state clearly which scenario you have selected.
Provide a brief background that includes the medication prescribed for the patient and, if applicable, any over the counter (OTC) medication taken by the patient. Provide an overview of medicines optimisation to inform the reader of your understanding using relevant literature to support.
Signpost the reader to the key elements for discussion in the main body, refer to module learning outcomes for further guidance.
Main body of assignment Critically discuss the therapeutic effect and potential side effects of the medications indicated in the selected scenario with reference to a wide range of published evidence. Incorporate your knowledge and align to the needs of the patient/person in the scenario (LO 2, 3)
Demonstrate a critical analysis of ways of working collaboratively with the person in the scenario with reference to informed choice in their decision making (LO 4).
Utilise underpinning evidence to explore issues related to adherence considering adverse effects and medicines optimisation of both medications in your chosen scenario (LO 3, 4)
To help structure your argument, consider using a framework for each paragraph, such as ‘Claim > Justify > Support >Implications’ (adapted from Mitchell and Riddle, 2000)
Summarise key learning points from the main body, and include any recommendations for future practice related to medicines optimisation.
Reference list Using Harvard referencing, and ensure that you identify the sources of material used, acknowledge the original author and include the reference in the text and in the reference list (see Cite them Right (Pears and Shields, 2010)) Not included in word count
Identify and demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the medications provided in the scenarios (LO 1, 2)
Sample Solution
For this discussion, I will be addressing how I would collaboratively work with my patient to achieve medicines optimization in the scenario where a 70-year-old man has been prescribed four different medications for his conditions, but is unsure about the side effects and risks associated with them.
The first step when it comes to providing holistic care to a patient is understanding their beliefs, values and overall goals. In this case, it would involve finding out why the patient was prescribed such an array of drugs and what he hopes to gain from taking them so as to ensure that any interventions are tailored specifically towards his individual needs (Kosiak, 2017). Additionally , we should also ask if he has any prior knowledge or experience when it comes to medicine management which may help inform our decision making.
Once we have established the context behind these prescriptions , then a collaborative approach can be taken through utilizing contemporary principles such as shared decision making and patient activation (Lyles et al.,2009). This involves working together towards creating treatment plans which promote independence while still keeping safety in mind – such as setting reminders;organizing medication according to daily routines;or preparing questions for doctor visits etc . Similarly giving him access to educational materials on drug interactions /side effects could help reduce confusion whilst also helping him take more control over his own health outcomes.
