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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: I had it a long time ago. What should I know about it?
RPh: What has (prescriber) told you?
Patient: They said it was for my stuffy nose.
RPh: Ok. This medication is called MOMETASONE, also known as NASONEX, and you'll use it (as directed). It's in the family of what's called a nasal corticosteroid, but basically it reduces runny nose, congestion, sneezing, itchy nose, and even may help eye symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis, also known as seasonal allergies. Give it a good shake every time before you use it. The first time you use it, spray in the air until you see a good stream. If you need to blow your nose, do it just before and wait at least 30 minutes after so the medication can work. Tip your head forward to prevent the medication from leaking down your throat, block the opposite nostril, inhale gently while you push the spray. Try to aim the nozzle straight up or even a little to towards the outside of your nose, to prevent thinning of the skin that can cause nosebleeds. You may notice a bit of a headache and possibly a change in your taste, smell, or voice. You'll get most of the benefit by 2-4 weeks. Risks are rare with this medication, unless you take many steroids (creams, pills, etc) all together and frequently. In this case, it could affect your immune system. Keep it at room temperature.
Patient: This is for my 3 year old; is it safe for someone that young.
RPh: Yes it's safe if for your 3 year old.
Patient: Ok, thank you. Another question: you mentioned it could affect the immune system. Don't nose sprays not get into your system much?
RPh: Fortunately, mometasone is one of the members of this nasal spray family that does not get absorbed significantly, but others do get absorbed a bit more. Any other questions?
Patient: No, thank you!
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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