Summary

This is a concise and practical guide to the role of the clinical pharmacist, including basic skills and the choice and management of treatment in specific therapeutic problems. Pharmaceutical care includes the handling of each problem individually, assessment of whether the aims of therapy are being met, application of therapeutic guidelines to decide what action is needed and the implementation and monitoring of this action. This book aims to concisely teach students the job of a clinical pharmacist. Section 1 covers the basics of pharmaceutical care and outlines the tools and techniques required to make the maximum contribution to patient care whilst taking account of the realities of the typical working environment. Section 2 goes on to cover specific therapeutic problems. Each chapter begins with learning objectives, and ends with 10-20 MCQs. Answers and explanatory notes appear at the end of the book. Easily accessible further reading is also provided, as are examples of care planning. Much of the text is flow-chart based and this makes it unique in approach.Each algorithm reflects the dynamic and cyclical pharmaceutical care process, and includes outcomes, monitoring, and whether the aims of treatment have been met. Key references are included to support the decisions within each algorithm.