Assignment 7.

2
Self-Assessment: Do You Use OTC Products Properly?

In the space provided, select the response that most closely reflects your pattern of OTC
medication use by assigning the item 1 point (never), 2 points (usually), or 3 points
(always).

___1. When symptoms of an illness first appear, are you confident of your ability to self-
diagnose?

___2. On the basis of your ability to self-diagnose, are you comfortable with your ability
to select a safe and effective OTC product?

___3. Do you read package instructions on OTC products before you leave the store so
that areas of confusion or misunderstanding can be clarified by talking with the
pharmacist?

___4. At the time you purchase an OTC medication, do you know whether the product
could result in a drug interaction with or in some way reduce the effectiveness of other
medications being taken?

___5. Is there a knowledgeable person, such as a pharmacist, at the store at which you
usually purchase your OTC medications to answer your questions and address your
concerns?

___6. When you are taking multiple medications (OTCs and prescription), do you keep a
record of use in order to avoid excessive or inadequate intake?

___7. Do you use a pill box or other device that compartmentalizes OTC medications,
thus providing greater control over the time and amount of medication taken?

____8. For OTC medications that you take frequently (but not continually), do you
reread package directions to refresh your memory regarding safe and effective use?

___9. Before actually using an OTC medication for the first time, do you check the
product’s seal and inspect the container for pinhole-sized punctures?

___10. Do you store all OTC medications in a cool, dry place unless directed by the
label or the pharmacist to store them differently?

___11. Are your medications stored in a manner that makes them inaccessible to
children?

___12. For medications that are to be taken during the night, do you always turn on a
light or have a plan for taking the medication safely in a darkened room?
___13. Do you dispose of expired or no longer needed OTC medications on a regular
basis?

Interpretation

Score range

30-39 points…You are a careful user of OTC medication and should be able to avoid
most potentially serious problems with the use of these products.

20-29 points…You are a reasonably careful user of OTC medications, but there are areas
in which you should be more cautious.

13-19 points…You are far from a careful user of OTC medications and should make a
serious effort to improve your practices in the areas suggested by the items in which you
scored only 1 point.

You may respond to the self-assessment on the Cyber Café.