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
- The doctor educates the patient on Food-Drug Interaction.
- 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.
- 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.