Hospitals need this policy to ensure that patients and their families are educated about safe and effective use of medication and about potential food- drug interactions.

• The Nursing, Pharmacy Department and the Dietetics will work together to educate patients and/or families about potential drug-nutrient interactions.
• The PTC will maintain a list of potential drug-nutrient interactions which present a significant risk to patients.
• Prior to providing patient education, patient medical records are reviewed.
• Generally, verbal instructions are given to the patient; however, reading materials are also given to the patient to supplement learning.
• If appropriate, based on the complexity of therapy, and if anticipated prior to discharge, such education will begin before the day of discharge

At OPD level

1. The doctor educates the patient on Food-Drug Interaction.
2. On Reference Basis: the Nutritionist also educates the patient for special dietary needs &list of food items that can be included/ excluded from the diet.
3. Pharmacist re-educates on the time gap between Food Intake with respect to Medication is advised to the patients; especially for popular drug prescriptions like Antibiotics, Pain Management Drugs, Hormonal preparations etc.

At IP level

• The doctor educates the patient on Food-Drug Interaction, timing etc.
• Nurses ensure the time gap between Food Intake and Medication is maintained.
• Nutritionist educates the patient/ Family for special dietary needs &list of food items that can be included/ excluded from the diet. This is noted in their Diet Chart as well. Similar information is reiterated during their discharge process, with a handout on Dietary Education.