General Pediatric Clinical Pharmacist

Department Overview: The purpose of this position is to provide the services of a licensed pharmacist which includes the responsibility for the safe and proper distribution and use of drugs in inpatients and outpatients who range in age from neonates, infants less than one year of age, children and adolescents ages 10-18, adults ages 19-65 and the elderly over age 65. This position is to function at higher decision making levels regarding drug therapy, proactively affecting drug use by making recommendations at the time prescribing decisions are being made or, in some cases, making independent decisions about drug therapy in cooperation with other health team members. This is a flexible model where traditionally centralized functions, such as order entry/verifications, will become part of decentralized practice as the technology associated with patient care evolves. Function/Duties of Position Identifies, resolves and documents complex therapeutic problems, demonstrating advanced knowledge and application of this knowledge to a specific patient population. Responds accurately to requests for drug information from physicians, nurses, patients and patient's families; independently reviews and interprets the literature and applies this information to specific patient care situations. Monitors therapeutic response and adverse effects of medications to guidedrug therapy. Consults with provider when questions or problems are identified. Appropriately reports all adverse drug reactions, drug defects, andmedication errors. Directs the work of students/residents and monitors and evaluates theirperformance. Influences standards of therapy by forming peer level relationships with attending medical staff members; is recognized as a drug authority in a specialized practice area by physicians, nurses and pharmacists. Assists in the development of treatment guidelines to be used in patients withspecific diagnosis. Documents activities in the patient medical record, pharmacy monitoring profile, drug use evaluation data collection or adversedrug reaction reporting program. Interprets and evaluates physician's orders and prescriptions for accuracy, completeness and appropriateness. Participates in both intra and interdepartmental education programs; participates in the development of peers.