Beneficial clinical outcomes resulting from pharmacist interventions

Abstract

Objective. To assess the contribution pharmacists make to patient care by determining the clinical outcomes associated with pharmacist interventions. Methods. A 2-month prospective intervention study was conducted at Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, a tertiary referral center. During the study, clinical pharmacists documented intervention episodes, patient demographical details, and the drug(s) involved. Clinical outcomes resulting from pharmacist-initiated changes to drug therapy and patient management were assessed by an independent pharmacist according to defined criteria. Outcomes were determined through review of patient medical progress notes and discussion with members of the health care team. Results. A total of 674 interventions were documented during the data collection period. Outcomes could be assessed for 10% of the interventions reported, and 90% of these interventions resulted in documented clinical benefit. The drug classes most frequently associated with pharmacist interventions were antiemetics, antimicrobials, and analgesics. Conclusion. This prospective study demonstrated a high rate of beneficial outcomes achieved by pharmacist interventions.