Did you know Cabrini has onsite hospital pharmacy at both Malvern and Brighton?

As part of World Thrombosis Day we sat down with Cabrini Pharmacy Clinical Team Leader at Brighton, Lyndal Emery to find out how our hospital pharmacists assist in the care and recovery of our patients every day.

Cabrini’s pharmacy department is made up of dedicated pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and a procurement team, who are responsible for dispensing and distributing medicines prescribed to patients while in hospital.

Lyndal said the team provided a comprehensive pharmaceutical service to patients, including taking a Best Possible Medication History (BPMH) for patients being admitted through the emergency department, day of surgery admissions, and wards.

“Once the doctor has prescribed the patients’ medication we reconcile those lists to ensure patients receive all intended medicines, and avoid errors of transcription, omission, duplication of therapy and interactions,” Lyndal said.

“We assess each patient and their risk factors in developing thrombosis during their stay and upon discharge, and make recommendations for pharmacological prevention where required. In addition, if someone comes in for surgery and is taking an anticoagulant, we may advise that this is stopped after considering both the clotting and bleeding risk of the individual patient and type of surgery they are scheduled for.”

She said one of their main roles was to speak to patients to make sure they understood what medications they were taking, why they were taking them and how to take them correctly.

“A small intervention can make a big impact on a patient’s outcome and their journey,” Lyndal said.

“The most rewarding part of my role is being part of a multidisciplinary team, working alongside doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, speech pathologists – all with the same goal, to improve patient care. And having the opportunity to have an impact on the patient when they are at their most vulnerable – in hospital. Cabrini staff are compassionate and have a real focus on the patient journey.”

To mark World Thrombosis Day (October 13) we are encouraging all patients to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a blood clot and to speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Lyndal said being a patient in hospital increased your chance of getting a blood clot, particularly for people who were having or had recently had surgery or a procedure, or those on bed rest.

She said patients should notify their doctor immediately if they noticed any of the following: chest pain; shortness of breath; pain and/or swelling in the legs; or skin that is red or warm to touch.

For more information on our pharmacy services click here.