Role-Effectiveness of the Pharmacist in the Treatment of Hemodialysis Patients

To assess the pharmacist’s role effectiveness in the treatment of hemodialysis patients, the following variables were evaluated: (1) the patients’ knowledge and understanding of their drugs, diet, dialysis procedures and disease states, (2) compliance with drug regimens, and (3) the patients’ biochemical and therapeutic responses. These variables were evaluated with and without the pharmacist’s input, over one year for 24 chronic hemodialysis patients. Pharmacist input included services such as consultation regarding the disease state and the need for compliance with diet and drug regimen; written reminders regarding oral medication; maintenance of dietary, medication and metabolic profiles; and adjustment of dosage regimens. These services were provided to all patients for four months and to half the patients for an additional four months. Patients’ knowledge improved significantly (p < 0.001) after pharmacist involvement, as did drug compliance (p < 6.0001). Both improvements reversed in the absence of the pharmacist<s services. Patients' biochemical and therapeutic responses improved when the pharmacists' services were provided and decreased significantly (p < 0.05) when the services were removed. The findings indicate that the pharmacist’s activities improved the effectiveness of treatment.