The Pharmacist’s Role in the Care of Pediatric Emergency Department Patients

The Pediatric Pharmacy Association (PPA) strongly urges health care institutions to establish and support the pharmacist's role in pediatric emergency department (ED) settings. Adult patient-centric guidelines have firmly established the general role of the pharmacist and pharmacy services in emergency medicine; however, pediatric pharmacy presence is often considered in case-based scenarios, such as pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation events. PPA recommends supporting the pharmacist's role in all pediatric ED settings and scenarios including, but not limited to, participation in direct patient care activities, education, safety, improvement initiatives, and transitions of care. Further, PPA advocates for the provision of appropriate training, credentialing, and ongoing mentorship and competency in these areas.