Course Reflection Week 8 Griseida Montanez Essay
Course Reflection Week 8 Griseida Montanez Essay
Course Reflection Week 8 Griseida Montanez Essay
Week 8 Course Reflection
Throughout the course, my understanding of identifying the most prescribed agents in major drug classes has undergone a significant transformation. Initially, I held a misconception that pharmaceutical companies and their advertisements played the primary role in determining medication choices. However, I have realized that this perception was oversimplified and did not capture the complexity of the prescribing process. One of the most important realizations I have gained is the existence and significance of clinical guidelines. These guidelines serve as evidence-based recommendations that direct healthcare providers on the appropriate medications for specific conditions (American Psychological Association, 2020). Reputable medical organizations and government agencies develop them, and they consolidate the findings of rigorous research and clinical trials. By following these guidelines, prescribers ensure that their treatment decisions align with the best available evidence and promote patient safety and optimal outcomes.
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Understanding the role of clinical guidelines has helped me appreciate the comprehensive approach that healthcare professionals take when prescribing medications. The marketing efforts of pharmaceutical companies do not solely influence it but are rather guided by a commitment to evidence-based practice and providing the best possible care to patients. Furthermore, I have come to recognize the importance of patient-specific factors in medication selection. Prescribing decisions are tailored to individual patients based on their medical history, co-existing conditions, allergies, and personal responses to medications. This personalized approach ensures that the prescribed agents are safe, effective, and suitable for each patient’s unique needs (Halter et al., 2017). By gaining a deeper understanding of these factors, I now appreciate the complexity of the prescribing process. It is a delicate balance between evidence-based guidelines, patient-specific considerations, and healthcare provider expertise. Acknowledging this multidimensional approach has not only improved my understanding but also instilled a greater sense of confidence in the prescribing practices of healthcare providers.
I feel significantly more confident in my ability to analyze the factors relevant to making the most effective drug selection for a patient with a specific diagnosis in the primary care setting. The knowledge and skills I have acquired have provided me with a solid foundation for this task. I recognize the importance of utilizing appropriate resources to further enhance my confidence. Textbooks are valuable references that provide in-depth information on drug classes, mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic uses. They serve as a reliable source of knowledge when analyzing the efficacy and appropriateness of different medications for specific diagnoses.
Clinical practice guidelines are another essential resource. These evidence-based recommendations offer guidance on the most effective and safe treatments for various conditions. They provide a standardized approach to drug selection, considering factors such as disease severity, patient demographics, and potential comorbidities. Consulting these guidelines helps ensure that the chosen medications align with the best available evidence. Additionally, seeking guidance from experienced preceptors and collaborating with other healthcare providers can greatly enhance my confidence in making effective drug selections. They bring their expertise and practical insights, allowing me to learn from their experiences and better understand real-world scenarios. Their mentorship and input can help me navigate complex cases and consider factors that may not be explicitly addressed in textbooks or guidelines. Continuing education and staying up to date with the latest research and developments in pharmacology are also crucial for maintaining confidence in drug selection. By regularly engaging in professional development activities, attending conferences, and accessing reputable online resources, I can stay informed about emerging treatments, new drug approvals, and potential drug interactions or contraindications.
Throughout this course, my understanding of analyzing client indicators of therapeutic, ineffective, adverse responses, and side effects to drug therapy has become more comprehensive and refined. As a nurse, I had already been taught the importance of monitoring for therapeutic effects and being aware of potential adverse medication reactions. However, this course has reinforced and deepened my understanding of these concepts, emphasizing the critical role of follow-up and evaluation in determining treatment effectiveness. One significant realization I have had is the importance of closely monitoring clients for the desired therapeutic effects of medications. This involves assessing whether the drug is producing the intended positive outcomes, such as symptom improvement or disease management. By diligently observing and documenting client indicators, I can determine whether the treatment plan is effective or if adjustments are necessary. This understanding has reinforced the need for regular follow-ups with clients to track their progress and ensure that the prescribed therapy is achieving the desired goals.
Additionally, the course has highlighted the significance of recognizing and managing adverse responses and side effects of drug therapy. I have gained a deeper understanding of the range of potential adverse reactions that can occur and how they can impact client outcomes. By closely monitoring clients for signs and symptoms of adverse effects, I can intervene promptly, minimize harm, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. This includes educating clients about potential side effects, promoting medication adherence, and collaborating with healthcare providers to mitigate any negative outcomes.
I recognize that I still have much to learn and gain experience before feeling completely confident in my abilities. However, I am eager to continue learning and improving my skills in this area. As a novice in this field, I understand that it is natural to feel unsure and cautious about writing prescriptions, as a significant responsibility is involved in selecting the right medication for a patient (American Psychological Association, 2020). However, I believe that with the tools and resources available to me, I can make informed decisions and write appropriate prescriptions according to evidence-based practice guidelines.
One of the essential resources I will need to feel more prepared is access to reliable and current clinical practice guidelines. This includes resources such as textbooks, online databases, and clinical decision support tools such as Epocrates. These resources will provide me with evidence-based information on drug therapies, dosing, indications, and contraindications, enabling me to make informed decisions in selecting the most appropriate medication for my patient. In addition, having access to experienced healthcare professionals such as clinical preceptors, colleagues, and physicians can provide me with valuable guidance and feedback on my prescription writing skills. Collaborating with more experienced healthcare providers will allow me to learn from their experiences and insights, enabling me to gain confidence in my abilities and improve my skills.
Ultimately, I believe that the best way to feel prepared to write appropriate prescriptions is through hands-on experience and exposure to various clinical scenarios. As I progress through my career, I will continue to learn and gain more experience, enabling me to write appropriate prescriptions according to evidence-based practice guidelines with greater confidence and competence.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000
Halter, J. B., Ouslander, J. G., Studenski, S., High, K. P., Asthana, S., Ritchie, C.S., & Supiano, M. A. (2017). Hazzard’s geriatric medicine and gerontology (7th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
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Course Reflection
Week 8
Griseida Montanez
• How has you understanding changed about identifying the most commonly prescribed agents in the major drug classes? I am surprised to say that I feel like my understanding has dramatically improved. At one point (like last semester) I really thought that the reason prescribers prescribed specific medications was strictly because of the pharmaceutical companies and their advertisements. I see now that there are guidelines directing providers on what exactly should be prescribed for a specific condition.
• How confident do you feel about analyzing factors pertinent to making the most effective drug selection for a patient with a specific diagnosis in the primary care setting? I feel confident that I have the tools to be able to analyze factors that pertain to making the best drug selection for a patient who has a specific diagnosis in a primary setting. What resources are needed, if any, to help you feel more confident? Resources that I will need are textbooks, clinical practice guidelines, preceptor and other providers if available.
• How has your understanding changed regarding analyzing client indicators of therapeutic, ineffective, adverse responses and side effects to drug therapy? I strongly feel that my understanding has solidified as registered nurses we are definitely taught to monitor for therapeutic effect of the medication, and we are taught what the possible adverse reactions could be to a medication. With this class, I have relearned the importance of following up for a response in treatment, because follow up will determine if the treatment is effective or if we must go back to the drawing board to figure out a different course of treatment for the patient.
• Reflect on your preparedness to write appropriate prescriptions according to evidence-based practice guidelines. What resources are needed, if any, to help you feel more prepared? At this early point in my career, I feel like I need someone to hold my hand the first time I write a prescription, I believe that is part of going from an expert in my field a novice in my new career choice and the fact that I am terrified of choosing the wrong treatment. If I am being honest with myself though, in person, as we speak (minus the license that is part of the requirement) I do feel like I have the tools to be able to make a great decision in the treatment of my patient. Using the evidence-based practice guidelines, using online resources such as epocrates as well as using my ‘live’ resources such as in clinicals, preceptors, in practice, providers who I work with. I think what I will need now is to sit for the boards so I could have the physical license.
