In which situation would a nurse consult a clinical pharmacist?

A nurse would consult a clinical pharmacist when developing a medication management plan for a patient with complex medication needs because clinical pharmacists have specialized training and expertise in pharmacotherapy. They are equipped to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and appropriateness of medications for patients who may have multiple health conditions, complicated medication regimens, or require extensive monitoring.

In such situations, the pharmacist can provide valuable insights on potential drug interactions, side effects, and the overall therapeutic goals for the patient. Their input can enhance patient outcomes by ensuring that the medication plan is not only safe but also effective in addressing the patient's unique health challenges.

In contrast, the other scenarios involve more straightforward situations that generally do not require in-depth evaluation or consultation with a pharmacist. For instance, deciding on generic medications for all patients is typically a decision that can be guided by formulary policies or standard practices without needing in-depth pharmacist consultation. Similarly, prescribing common over-the-counter medications does not usually necessitate specialized knowledge outside of basic nursing practice. Lastly, no medication can be accurately indicated as having absolutely no side effects, which underlines the importance of consultation when questions about medications arise.