# Sample Job Description: Geriatric Emergency Department Pharmacist

The Geriatric ED depends on the collaboration of the interdisciplinary team. Every member has an important role to play in delivering age-friendly care. Below is a sample Geriatric Emergency Department Pharmacist job description that can be adapted for your ED. You can download a copy for your ease of use.

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Pharmacist Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Geriatric Emergency Department Pharmacist to join our team at [Insert Hospital Name]. The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing specialized pharmaceutical care to older adults in the emergency department, focusing on improving patient outcomes, reducing hospital admissions, and facilitating early safe discharge. This role is part of our Geriatric Emergency Department Intervention program, which aims to enhance the quality of care for frail older persons presenting with acute illnesses or complex healthcare needs. 

Responsibilities: 

Provide comprehensive pharmaceutical care to geriatric patients in the emergency department. 

Collaborate with the interprofessional Geriatric ED team to ensure coordinated and patient-centered care. 

Conduct medication reviews, assess medication appropriateness, and recommend deprescribing and dose adjustments to optimize outcomes and reduce adverse drug events. 

Educate patients and their families about medication management, potential side effects, and adherence strategies. 

Develop and implement protocols and guidelines for the safe use of medications in older adults. 

Participate in quality improvement initiatives and research projects related to geriatric emergency care. 

Provide training and support to ED staff on geriatric pharmacotherapy and best practices. 

Monitor and evaluate patient outcomes to identify areas for improvement and implement evidence-based interventions. 

Provide patient specific medication use teaching for discharge medications when appropriate.

Qualifications: 

PharmD degree from an accredited pharmacy school. 

Board certification in geriatric pharmacy preferred. 

Minimum of 2 years of experience in a clinical pharmacy setting, preferably in an emergency department or geriatric care. 

Strong knowledge of pharmacotherapy in older adults, including polypharmacy management and medication-related risks. 

Ability to complete comprehensive geriatric assessments.

Demonstrated knowledge of medical/biological issues as they relate to the aging process (knowledge of delirium, risk factors, medications etc.).

Practical knowledge of pharmacology, current best practice clinical guidelines, and ability to interpret lab value.

Advanced understanding of dementia and the ability to assess the unique impact of the disease.

Thorough understanding of "Responsive Behaviours" and behavioural expression as a form of communication.

Thorough knowledge of community resources in order to provide linkage to the appropriate services necessary to best serve the client.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. 

Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with advancements in geriatric pharmacotherapy. 

Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and medication management systems.