Welcome to the second edition of our new segment, the Cue Card Consult! Simply reply to this email with any feedback you may have; we're always searching for ways to improve.
Click here and scroll down for previous newsletters.
1. Pictured Counselling Cue Card: a free sample of our counselling reference
2. Patient Consultation: exactly what a pharmacist may say to a patient picking up this medication, with formatting to show where the information is coming from on the cue card
Clearly, there are nuances that may not be captured in this format. The goal here is to provide you with an example of how a pharmacist may counsel a patient. Basic counselling tactics (e.g. showing the patient the labeled medication as you read it, having the patient repeat the information in their own words, double checking allergies, and so on) may not be depicted in the interest of keeping the content concise.
RPh: Hi! Is this your first time using this medication?
Patient: Yes it is. What should I know about it?
RPh: What has (prescriber) told you?
Patient: Nothing.
RPh: Ok. What are we using it for?
Patient: My (prescriber) said I have too much pressure in my eye.
RPh: Understood. This medication is called DORZOLAMIDE, also known as TRUSOPT, and you'll use it (as directed). It's in the family of what's called a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, but basically it reduces pressure in your eye caused by glaucoma. When using eye drops, it's best to wash your hands and avoid touching the bottle to your eye to prevent contamination. Another tip is to stand in front of a mirror, pull down the lower eye lid while looking up, then instill the drop(s) in the sac that's formed below your eye. Then, to prevent side effects (like metallic taste) and so it works the best it can, shut your eye gently for at least 1 minute. You may notice a bit of irritation that goes away on its own quickly. If you wear contact lenses, please remove them before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. You'll see most of the benefit after 1-3 months. This medication is right for you if you don't have an allergy to sulfa drugs, and if your doctor hasn't told you that you have a problem with the cornea of your eye. Keep it at room temperature, and keep in mind it will only last 1 month once opened. Did you have any questions?
Patient: I am breastfeeding; is this medication still ok to take?
RPh: Yes it's safe during breastfeeding.
Patient: Ok, I think you covered it!
We hope you have found this useful, and please reply to this email with any feedback or topic suggestions you can; it will be the key to making this newsletter the best it can be.
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