The clinical pharmacist in emergency medicine

The function of a pharmacist in emergency medicine, encompasing clinical practice, education and research, are described, and an evaluation of physicians' and nurses' attitudes toward pharmacist involvement in these areas is presented. In July 1974, a pharmacist joined the staff of a department of emergency health services in a medical center. In June 1976, a 14-item questionnaire was administered to physicians and nurses associated with the department. Seventy-two percent of the questionnaires were completed and returned. All respondents felt the pharmacist was an important component of the department and a benefit to its patient care and educational programs. Eighty-seven percent of the physicians stated that the pharmacist is capable of offering primary care to certain patients once the diagnosis has been made by a physician; 95% felt the role of the pharmacist is transferrable to other emergency room facilities and 83% were willing to have their patients charged for his services.