Chapter 4: Patient Interview and Assessment
Synopsis
Author
Dr. Usha Sri Pammi, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Sir C.R. Reddy College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Pharmaceutical calculations form the mathematical foundation of medication preparation, dispensing, and administration. Basic mathematical principles essential to pharmacy practice include measurement systems (metric, apothecary, household), unit conversions, ratio expressions, proportions, and alligation calculations that ensure accurate medication processing. Dosage calculations translate prescribed amounts into practical administration instructions, incorporating body weight and surface area considerations for pediatric and specialized populations, while accounting for creatinine clearance in renally eliminated medications. Compounding calculations support formulation development through percentage strength determinations, dilution ratios, molecular weight conversions, and accurate measurement of active and inactive ingredients to create customized medications. Concentration and dilution calculations enable pharmacists to prepare solutions of specified strengths, adjust existing concentrations, and perform isotonicity calculations ensuring physiological compatibility of parenteral preparations. These mathematical skills directly impact patient safety by preventing medication errors, enabling accurate dosing across diverse patient populations, and supporting the precise preparation of both routine and specialized pharmaceutical products.
Keywords: Medication History Taking, Patient-Centered Communication, Therapeutic Relationship, Health Literacy, Culturally-Competent Care
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