An active-learning assignment using nonprescription medicines.
OBJECTIVE
To create and implement a web-based written assignment to evaluate student's abilities to select appropriate nonprescription medications and recommend therapy.


METHODS
Each student developed a patient case study from an assigned condition, made treatment recommendations, and provided patient counseling information using at least 2 nonprescription medicines. The active-learning exercise required students to apply information previously presented in a large classroom setting.


RESULTS
Cases most commonly submitted included therapy for burns, acne, conjunctivitis, lacerations, and poison ivy. One-hundred five students completed a 5-item questionnaire regarding the assignment. The majority of the respondents (51.9%) felt the assignment helped to reinforce course content and 58.1% felt it made them more comfortable with making product recommendations.


CONCLUSIONS
The Personal Pharmacy assignment was an effective learning activity for enhancing student's understanding and appropriate selection of nonprescription medicines.
Nykamp
Diane
D
College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Mercer University, USA.
Marshall
Leisa L
LL
Ashworth
Laurel
L
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D003479:Curriculum; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods; D013339:Students, Pharmacy
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs