An evidence-based elective on dietary supplements.
OBJECTIVE
To implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a pharmacy elective on dietary supplements that emphasized evidence-based care.


METHODS
A 3-credit elective that employed both traditional lectures and a variety of active-learning exercises was implemented. The course introduction provided a background in dietary supplement use and evidence-based medicine principles before addressing dietary supplements by primary indication.


RESULTS
Student learning was assessed through quizzes, case assignments, discussion board participation, and completion of a longitudinal group project. Precourse and postcourse surveys were conducted to assess students' opinions, knowledge, and skills related to course objectives.


CONCLUSIONS
The course was an effective way to increase students' knowledge of dietary supplements and skills and confidence in providing patient care in this area.
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, NY 12208, USA. machaon_bonafede@yahoo.com
Machaon
M
Bonafede
Whitney
W
Caron
Mario
M
Zeolla
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D032882:Comprehension; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003479:Curriculum; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004514:Education, Pharmacy, Graduate; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010379:Peer Group; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013339:Students, Pharmacy / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs