Where are psychiatric pharmacists found and what do they do?
A psychiatric pharmacist is a pharmacist that has extensive knowledge regarding psychiatric medications. Psychiatric pharmacists can be involved in many diverse roles. Some are involved with drug research and development. Others work in hospitals and VA’s and have direct patient contact. Still others are involved in the area of academia and therefore mentor and teach pharmacists, physicians and nurses currently in training. No matter what the practice, patient care and safety are top priorities of the psychiatric pharmacist. Most psychiatric pharmacist spend the bulk of their time consulting with physicians or psychiatrists. Other core responsibilities include: • Teaching pharmacy, nursing and medical students / residents • Answering drug questions • Assisting in formulary decisions • Providing direct patient care • Assisting in medications selection and dosing • Publishing in peer-reviewed journals / books. • Educating patients and their families on non-psychiatric disease states such
