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Development of learning outcomes for an undergraduate prescribing curriculum (British Pharmacological Society prescribing initiative)
Author(s) -
Ross Sarah,
Loke Yoon K.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
british journal of clinical pharmacology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.216
H-Index - 146
eISSN - 1365-2125
pISSN - 0306-5251
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2009.03581.x
Subject(s) - clarity , medical education , medicine , competence (human resources) , curriculum , psychological intervention , delphi method , medline , family medicine , psychology , nursing , pedagogy , biochemistry , chemistry , statistics , mathematics , political science , law , social psychology
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT • Tomorrow's Doctors provides overarching outcomes for undergraduate medical students on prescribing skills; however, detailed learning outcomes are not available. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS • This study provides additional guidance for medical schools and teachers by setting out detailed learning outcomes for prescribing. • The outcomes reflect the recent emphasis on teamwork and communication, as well as the need to minimize medication errors. • This is a further step towards defining practical prescribing competence. AIMS The question of whether new medical graduates are adequately prepared for the challenge of prescribing has been raised. Although broad outcomes for prescribing competency have been agreed, clarity is needed on the detailed outcomes expected of new graduates. This study aimed to create a consensus on the required competencies for new graduates in the area of prescribing. METHODS We used a modified Delphi approach based on the findings of a systematic review of educational interventions for improved prescribing. Panellists were asked to rank the importance of a list of 53 possible learning outcomes and to add any additional outcomes felt to be missing. RESULTS Of the 48 experts who were invited to participate, 28 agreed (58%). Forty‐five learning outcomes were included from the original list of 53. A further nine outcomes were suggested by panellists, of which five were included. The wording of three outcomes was changed in line with suggestions from the panellists. Many of the agreed outcomes relate to improving patient safety through medication review, checking appropriateness of the drug for the patient, recognizing the prescriber's limitations and seeking advice when needed. Enhanced communication with the patient and healthcare team, better documentation in the notes and discharge letters were key areas featured in this Delphi exercise. DISCUSSION This study has identified 50 learning outcomes for teaching prescribing. These build on the existing British Pharmacological Society document by focusing specifically on prescribing, with greater emphasis on avoiding medication errors and better communication.