This study explored how a sample of Australian pharmacists would convey\r\ninformation about the side effects of a medicine, if they were to counsel a patient. A qualitative\r\nmethod was selected and written responses to a case-based scenario were analysed using\r\ninductive thematic analysis. The grounded theory approach elicited a fluid and dynamic\r\nmodel for side effect counselling. The study identified strategies for counselling, such as\r\nencouraging adherence through emphasising the benefits of the medication, referral to the\r\nprescriber, and providing empathy and reassurance to ease anxiety and address concerns.\r\nPharmacists acknowledged the potential for risk, although only a minority used numerical\r\ndescriptors. The final themes or outcomes were that pharmacists aim to allay fears,\r\nminimise harm and promote medication use when counselling about side effects.\r\nProfessional empathy, the acknowledgment of patient concerns, and the importance of\r\nproviding tailored information to promote medication adherence, emerged as features of\r\nthe quality use of medicines. This study contributes to existing literature by identifying the\r\nrole of allaying patients� fears when conveying side effect information. It also describes a\r\nprocess to convey tailored information. Implications for practice include the importance of\r\neffective use of communication strategies to encourage adherence, as the appropriate use of\r\nmedication can lead to positive health outcomes.
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