“Having the medication list readily available saves critical time and makes it possible for doctors, nurses and staff to provide
the best care possible for your child.”
Jeanne M. Brytus, RN
Children’s admissions nurse
If your child comes to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC — through the Emergency Department, for a clinic visit, scheduled procedure or admission — it will be important for the staff to be informed of all prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, including vitamins and other supplements, respiratory therapy medications (e.g. inhalers), herbal remedies, ibuprofen, Tylenol®, etc., that he takes.
Does your child require eye or ear drops? Does he use ointments? Include everything, says Jeffrey Goff, RPh, MS, director of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Pharmacy Department.
Not only does the medication list help reduce confusion, save time and improve communication, it helps ensure the safety of your child, says Janet M. Frontera, BSN, RN, Quality Process Improvement Specialist. “What if your child is scheduled for surgery, and we don’t know that he is taking something that may increase the chances of bleeding? This is critical information."
If you don’t have the information in one place, take time to make the list now. Include:
- Name of medication/supplement
- Dosage
- Directions for medication (how and what time of day it’s taken)
- For medications/supplements recently prescribed, but no longer being taken, the date it was discontinued or when the dosage was changed
- The reason(s) for taking
- Allergies and reactions (include names of drugs, foods, products and environmental sources)
Important reminder: When your child is prescribed a new medication, update the list. Ask about side-effects and the correct way to administer. Write down the correct spelling, strength and dosage. Keep the list (and insurance card) with you at all times.