Considerations for a pediatric pharmaceutical patient care service

Pharmaceutical Patient Care Services to the ambulant pediatric patient will only be effective if special considerations are given to the patient's peculiarities. From the very young to the adolescent, each presents with special problems. Often, they cannot communicate effectively. Their health status frequently depends on the health behavior of the mother. Adolescents, in particular, present many unique medical and social problems. Pediatric patients receive fewer prescription medications than do adult patients, but drugs are administered frequently in the clinic. More often than not, nonprescription drugs are prescribed. This study could not document any particular physician concern with patient education or compliance.