Explore ways to improve communication between nursing staff and pharmacy providers in long-term care settings for safer, more efficient medication management.
In long-term care (LTC) environments, the relationship between nursing staff and pharmacy teams is more than just transactional, it’s essential. From timely medication deliveries to critical dose adjustments, clear and consistent communication can be the difference between seamless care and serious medical errors.
But breakdowns in communication are all too common. Misunderstood instructions, delays in updates, and unclear documentation can lead to incorrect dosages, missed refills, or even hospitalizations. Strengthening this partnership benefits not only the care team, but most importantly, the residents who rely on medication for daily health.
Let’s look at common challenges and practical ways to improve nurse-pharmacy communication.
Common Communication Challenges
- Incomplete Medication Orders:
Orders without clear instructions on dosage, route, or administration timing delay processing and increase the risk of errors. - After-Hours Confusion:
Facilities operating 24/7 often struggle with inconsistent access to pharmacists during off-hours. - Unclear Documentation or Verbal Requests:
When requests are made verbally or written vaguely, it leads to follow-up calls, delays, and misunderstandings. - Technology Gaps:
Facilities using outdated systems or relying on fax communication are more likely to experience delays and errors.
5 Ways to Improve Nurse-Pharmacy Communication
1. Standardize Communication Protocols
Create clear guidelines for submitting new medication orders, refills, and change requests. Use designated forms or digital portals to ensure consistency across shifts.
2. Implement Real-Time Digital Tools
Use pharmacy software that allows direct messaging or order tracking. Skilled Care Pharmacy provides client facilities with a secure online portal that simplifies order submission and status updates.
3. Hold Monthly Pharmacy Check-Ins
Establish a regular check-in between the Director of Nursing (DON) or charge nurse and the pharmacy liaison to discuss recurring issues, education needs, or upcoming changes in resident care.
4. Train New Staff on Pharmacy Processes
Orientation should include pharmacy communication procedures, especially for night shift and weekend staff. Skilled Care offers training resources to ensure your team knows what’s needed for smooth collaboration.
5. Leverage On-Call Pharmacist Access
Skilled Care’s 24/7 call center ensures your nursing team has support, even after hours. Use this resource for urgent clarifications or emergent needs without hesitation.
How Skilled Care Pharmacy Supports Better Communication
We view ourselves as an extension of your care team. That’s why we offer:
- A responsive, trained support team available day and night
- User-friendly e-prescription and order systems
- Dedicated liaisons to your facility for continuity and relationship-building
- Proactive follow-up to resolve incomplete orders or missing documentation
We don’t just fill prescriptions, we foster connection, trust, and collaboration.
In Summary
Communication is at the core of successful long-term care. By investing in clear systems and partnerships between nursing staff and pharmacy providers, your facility can reduce errors, improve resident outcomes, and reduce staff burnout.
Ready to streamline communication and boost resident safety? Reach out to Skilled Care Pharmacy and discover how we help your team work better, together.
