Physiotherapists' Role in Medication Management PDF

Affirmative group PTs should have a deep knowledge of pharmacology and they should have the ability to prescribe medications By : RAWAN ALSHAMMARI MANAR ALAZMI EISSA ALRASHED ALI ALDEETHAN MOHAMMED SHEHAB Without understanding the effects of the medications that our patients use, their physiotherapy...

Affirmative group PTs should have a deep knowledge of pharmacology and they should have the ability to prescribe medications By : RAWAN ALSHAMMARI MANAR ALAZMI EISSA ALRASHED ALI ALDEETHAN MOHAMMED SHEHAB Without understanding the effects of the medications that our patients use, their physiotherapy treatment cannot be optimized. Arguments : 01 Side effects 03 Patient education 02 Communication with other health care providers 04 OTC “ over the counter” medications with some advises 1. Side effects : PTs should have a deep knowledge of some medications because in case a patient experiences an adverse reaction during physical therapy sessions, PTs who are knowledgeable about medications can quickly identify if it is related to a medication and take appropriate action. For ex; If a HTN pt didn’t take their medication before the session, we should be aware if it increases with exercises. If a diabetic pt didn’t take their medication before the session, they might have hypoglycaemia. If an epileptic pt had their medication before the session, they will experience dizziness and laziness as a side effects. So we should be aware of that 2. Communication with other health care providers : In case we are working in medical wards or ICU, Knowing a patient's medications allows PTs to communicate effectively with other members of the healthcare team, such as physicians or pharmacists. This can lead to better coordination of care and improved outcomes for the patient. 3. Patient education : If it is an orthopedic OPD, PTs can also educate patients about how their medications may impact their physical therapy outcomes. This can help patients better understand their treatment plan, actively participate in their care and build a trust between each of them. 4. OTC “ over the counter” medications with some advises :    Physiotherapists must not give advice if they are unsure of the potential risks related to the medication or possible drug interaction. ensure that any advice given is evidence-based. In some situations, PTs may suggest a patient obtains particular OTC medication such as ( NSAID, muscle relaxants and topical creams). REBUTTALS 1. Our academic curriculum  While physiotherapists may not have extensive pharmacological training, they can collaborate with other healthcare professionals and undergo further education to safely prescribe medications within their scope of practice.  Additionally, they can rely on established protocols and guidelines to ensure appropriate medication management for their patients. 2. Patient safety Physiotherapists can collaborate with pharmacists and physicians for guidance and prescriptions, ensuring safe medication use. They can also undergo targeted training to enhance their understanding of medication management within their scope of practice. 3. PT eliminate the need for medication  Polypharmacy is common in older people. This research showed how the medications are crucial for them and can affect their physical activity levels and outcomes of rehabilitation.  So we can not ignore their effectiveness and benefit of and rely on PT sessions only. “Overall, having knowledge about medications allows PTs to provide more comprehensive and effective care to their patients.”