Definition of Communication

The Goal of Communication: Achieving Understanding

Understanding a Message: More Than Just Recognizing Words
Effective Communication: Active Listening and Understanding
Human Nature: A Barrier to Communication
Choosing a Medium for Message Transmission
Encoding a Message: Choosing Words for Intended Meaning
Decoding a Message: Meaning Comes from Receiver
Feedback and Clarification: Opportunities for Sender
Nonverbal Communication: Channels Beyond Words
Mixed Messages: Understanding Verbal and Nonverbal Cues
Categorizing Pharmacist-Patient Interactions (information giving and information
gathering)
Information Gathering Session: Purpose and Goals
Medication-History Interview
Assessing Patient Understanding and Motivation
Patient empowerment to select their own choices of health care
What is patient education? What are its uses
Differentiate between education and counselling
Counselling: patient counselling refers to the process of providing information, advice and
assistance to help patients use their medications appropriately.
According to USP, medication counselling is an approach that focuses on enhancing the patients’
problem-solving skills to improve or maintain the quality of health and quality of life. The
information is usually given verbally but may be supplemented with written materials.
During the patient counselling course, the pharmacist should assess the patient’s understanding
of their illness and treatment.
In addition, providing individualised advice and information will assist the patient in taking their
medication most safely and effectively
Contents of counselling (Name and description of the medicine, indications, route of
administration, dose and dosage form, directions for use, duration of therapy, special
directions, precautions, side effects, and contraindications)

Four Steps of proper OTC pharmacist-patient encounter?

The four steps of a proper OTC (over-the-counter) pharmacist-patient encounter are introduction,
assessment, recommendation, and follow-up. In the introduction, the pharmacist should greet the
patient warmly, introduce themselves, and inquire about the patient's health concern. In the
assessment step, the pharmacist should ask questions to gather information about the patient's
symptoms, medical history, and any medications they are currently taking. Based on this
information, the pharmacist can make a recommendation in the third step, which could include
suggesting an appropriate OTC medication or referring the patient to a healthcare provider.
Finally, in the follow-up step, the pharmacist should advise the patient about proper dosing and
usage of the recommended medication and answer any questions. The follow-up can also include
checking in with the patient later to see if the medication was effective and if the patient needs
any further assistance.

What is a pharmacist's obligation in providing advice to patients?

A pharmacist's primary obligation is to ensure that patients receive safe and effective medication
therapy. They must provide accurate and complete information about medication prescriptions,
dosage instructions, potential side effects, and drug interactions. Pharmacists must also counsel
patients on proper medication use, storage, and disposal. They are responsible for identifying
potential drug therapy problems and working with other healthcare providers to resolve these
issues. Additionally, pharmacists must maintain patient privacy and confidentiality, follow
ethical and legal guidelines, and continuously monitor patient progress. Ultimately, their duty is
to promote positive health outcomes for patients and improve their overall wellbeing.
Type of counselling services provided by pharmacists

Benefits of Counselling