The perceived benefits of student pharmacists educating children about over-the-counter medication safety

Background and purpose: To characterize the perceived impact of a student pharmacist-led over-the-counter (OTC) medication safety program for children. Educational activity and setting: An OTC medication safety program was implemented by student pharmacists at a western Pennsylvania pharmacy school by educating fifth and sixth graders for three years. An online survey and follow-up interviews were conducted to examine the program's perceived effectiveness and usefulness. Findings: 23% of program participants completed the survey and 18 follow-up interviews were conducted. Most participants were female, white, and student pharmacists. Respondents were satisfied with the program and perceived that it was useful (97%) and effective (94%) in teaching children OTC medication safety. Most participants (97%) reported that OTC medication safety is an important issue that children should learn about, expressed interest in participating in the program again, and recommended expanding the program. Children learned appropriate medication use, the Poison Control Center as a resource, and pharmacists' role in medication safety. Student pharmacists developed pediatric communication and community engagement skills, while learning about children's medication knowledge and interests. Program improvements included educating parents, expanding the program, and incorporating the use of technology. Summary: The student pharmacist-led program was perceived to be effective in communicating with fifth and sixth grade children about OTC medication safety. The program provided experiential opportunities for student pharmacists to practice counseling skills with children regarding safe and appropriate use of medicines.