Karl Winckel[/caption]
The author's CVD risk, calculated using AusCVDRisk, in printable image form[/caption]
2024 Credentialed Pharmicist of the Year Brooke Shelley MPS[/caption]
Rub shoulders with Kerri Barwick MPS (centre) and other members of team PSA at CPC24[/caption]
This activity is sponsored by Reckitt. All content is the true, accurate and independent opinion of the author and the views expressed are entirely their own.[/caption]
The use of insulin, considered a high-risk medication with APINCHs classification,5 Ms Barwick notes, provides justification for a Home Medicines Review (HMR). ‘There’s an advantage to going into the home to observe the patient’s diet, consider potential interactions, and educate patients on the best effects and outcomes,’ she says.
Advice around cleaning blood glucose level (BGL) monitors to ensure accuracy can also be provided. ‘Pharmacists can explain how to put test drops through and clean blood spills on the monitor, common in pregnancy due to higher blood volume,’ says Ms Barwick.
With only 50% of women diagnosed with GDM receiving tests for heart disease and type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy,6 HMRs can be beneficial at this stage of the journey, too.
‘Along with conversations around diet choices, exercise regimes and sleep, I also explain how often testing is required over the next 5–10 years, and how to monitor for signs of the development of diabetes,’ Ms Barwick advises.
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy
The presence of iron in pregnancy multivitamins may exacerbate symptoms of nausea and vomiting in some pregnancies, according to Ms Barwick.
‘Pharmacists can recommend a trial cessation of the iron component of pregnancy vitamins, often unnecessary in pregnancy,’ she says.
In 2020, photographer Bobbi Lockyer created a Birthing on Country project to highlight and create awareness around birthing issues and outcomes in Aboriginal women. For more, see 
FODMAPs and the healthy gut
The acronym ‘FODMAPs’ is used to describe types of short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine of some individuals.
Learning objectives...
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Approximately 1.8% of Australians have an Intellectual Disorder (ID), with severe or profound impairment. Australian Pharmacist looks at how pharmacists can upskill to provide appropriate care to this patient group.
Pharmacist vaccinations: ‘there needs to be a sustainable model’
From COVID-19 to influenza, pharmacists help to protect millions of Australians through vaccination services. But a lack of funding and access could have ‘dire consequences’ for the nation.
How culturally safe is your pharmacy?
This National Reconciliation Week (27 May–3 June), PSA Senior Pharmacist Megan Tremlett encourages pharmacists to change their perspective on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve end-of-life care.
Dapagliflozin for infertility for women with obesity
This glucose-lowering diabetes drug may have therapeutic benefits and clinical utility for people with reproductive dysfunction.
Sustainability solutions
Pharmacists from all practice settings can identify opportunities to create a more sustainable workplace.
