James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

PC2004:03

Professional Pharmacy Practice 1

Townsville

Prerequisites: PC1003 PC1004

36 lectures, 12 tutorials, 36 hours practicals. First semester.

Available to students enrolled in level 2 of the Bachelor of Pharmacy.

Staff: Dr R Rasiah, Ms I Patel, Dr M Ridd, Dr B McCool.

This subject examines the social and behavioural aspects of pharmacy practice and the pharmacist's role as a primary health care provider within the multidisciplinary health care team. It has been designed to increase the students' knowledge and understanding of verbal communication, history taking, interpersonal and counselling skills that consider the different cultural and socioeconomic needs of the patient. The provision of appropriate primary health care promotion information and the principles underlying quality use of medicines is introduced.

The student will also extend their knowledge and application of the pharmaceutics, solid pharmaceutical formulations, dosage forms, pharmaceutical correctness and appropriate presentation of the final product.

Learning Objectives:

  1. demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the concepts of pharmaceutical care and of quality use of medication and their relevance to rural and remote health care;
  2. further develop verbal communication and counselling skills required for the education of patients and the provision of advice to other health care professionals;
  3. develop awareness of the nature of the health care professions and the pharmacists role in both the primary and secondary care team;
  4. understand the fundamental concepts of quality in health care.
  5. consolidate understanding of the forensic aspects of pharmacy practice;
  6. demonstrate an understanding of the pharmaceutics of solid pharmaceutical formulations and dosage forms;
  7. develop an appreciation of the need for accuracy and thoroughness in extemporaneous dispensing and manufacturing operations;
  8. outline the principles of reaction kinetics and drug stability.

Assessment by a three-hour written examination (60%); laboratory attendance and reports (10%); extemporaneous dispensing practical examination (30%). Other assessment details should be checked with the academic adviser in Pharmacy.