Derm summary 3 Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the NICE (NG15) definition of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS)?
A healthcare system-wide approach to promote and monitor judicious use of antimicrobials to preserve their future effectiveness.
What is the BSAC definition of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS)?
The optimal selection, dosage, and duration of antimicrobial treatment that results in the best clinical outcome with minimal toxicity and minimal resistance.
What are the core goals of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS)?
- Improve patient outcomes (fewer admissions, reduced failure)
- Enhance patient safety (less C. difficile, fewer side effects)
- Reduce resistance
- Lower healthcare costs
What are the AMS responsibilities of community pharmacists?
- Clinical screening of prescriptions
- Provide PGD-based care
- Educate on self-care, hygiene
- Recognise alarm symptoms
- Promote adherence and safety-netting
What are the AMS responsibilities of clinical pharmacists in GP surgeries?
- Diagnose and treat infections
- Prescribe antimicrobials if IP-qualified
- Conduct medication reviews and audits
- Monitor local resistance trends
What are the AMS responsibilities of pharmacists in care homes?
- Screen antimicrobial use
- Support infection control
- Prevent unnecessary antibiotics
- Support documentation and audits
What are the AMS responsibilities of pharmacists in ICBs (Integrated Care Boards)?
- Create local prescribing guidelines
- Lead AMS implementation and audits
- Develop and deliver training
- Collaborate across healthcare settings
What is the TARGET Antibiotics Toolkit and who developed it?
A practical resource hub for prescribing, audits, and patient materials. Developed by UKHSA, RCGP, and ASPIC.
What is the role of NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS) in dermatology?
Used for evidence-based diagnosis and management, especially for differentiating similar skin conditions.
Why is the BNF/BNF App important in dermatological pharmacology?
Essential for treatment decisions, checking interactions, and contraindications. Section introductions provide key overlooked guidance.
How does formulation selection support patient adherence?
Choosing cream, ointment, or gel based on site, severity, and preference improves usability, especially for elderly or specific body areas.
What practical questions should pharmacists ask to assess adherence?
- Can the patient manage multiple daily applications?
- Do they understand product use (e.g., emollient vs steroid)?
- Are they worried about side effects?
- Have they had adherence issues before?
Differentiate between intentional and unintentional non-adherence and pharmacist actions.
Unintentional: Forgot, confused — Simplify, clarify, use visual guides
Intentional: Fear, belief — Reassure, educate, support shared decisions
