Below is a summary of Pam’s electronic health record (EHR) activity while she is in the hospital. As a pharmacist, you are responsible for ensuring that Pam receives the proper medications ordered by the physician. You are also responsible for reviewing any adverse interactions Pam might have with her current medications. Using her EHR, Virtual Physical Exam (VPE) and Internet research, answer the questions and be prepared to discuss the responses with the rest of Pam’s healthcare team.
Review Pam’s Outpatient EHR: According to Pam’s EHR, she is allergic to penicillin and codeine. What type of reaction could she experience if she is given any form of these medications?
Internet Research: As Pam’s pharmacist, why is it important for you to be aware of drug allergies?
Internet Research: Are there other forms of Penicillin that Pam cannot take?
Internet Research: Pam’s PCP physician, Dr. Jamison, prescribed albuterol (Ventolin HFA), a short-term bronchodilator. What is a bronchodilator?
Review Pam’s VPE: Using VPE, explain how a bronchodilator with a metered-dose inhaler is administered.
Internet Research: The pulmonologist prescribes fluticasone and salmeterol (Advair HFA), a long-term bronchodilator, in addition to the short-term medication. How does a long-term bronchodilator differ from a short-term bronchodilator?
Internet Research: As part of a nicotine replacement therapy, the pulmonologist prescribes varenicline (Chantix). Explain the purpose of this medication.