Jenna Castorena couldn’t believe her ears when she picked up a call in March from the Outpatient Pharmacy at CHOC Hospital. She was juggling a lot at the time, most importantly protecting her medically fragile son Robert from contracting COVID-19. Robert, who has epilepsy, cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease and several gastrointestinal issues, depends on […]
Medication
A day in the life of a pediatric pharmacy technician
By Harumi Hope, emergency department pharmacy technician at CHOC A pharmacy technician works under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist and perform many pharmacy-related functions. At CHOC Hospital, pharmacy technicians prepare, dispense and deliver medications and make sure required administrative work is kept up to date. They take on these responsibilities so the pharmacists […]
What do psychiatric medications do?
By Alice Kim, clinical pharmacist at CHOC Mental health is an important part of overall health. Therapy is important, but sometimes, medication is necessary to improve or maintain our mental health. These psychiatric medications are safe and effective when taken appropriately under a doctor’s supervision. Psychiatric medications influence the chemicals in our brains that regulate […]
A pharmacist’s guide to safe and proper medication disposal
By Melody Sun, clinical pharmacist at CHOC Medications can have harmful consequences if they are not properly handled. The following steps will help you ensure the medication in your home is properly disposed, with minimal chance for discarded medications to cause illness. Consult your local pharmacy, or local garbage and recycling facility with specific questions. […]
Budding pianist gives back to CHOC through piano recital
Lucie, age 13, is no stranger to performing. The budding pianist started playing piano when she was 6 years old, won her first local competition at 7, first international competition at age 9, and currently takes private lessons in addition to attending a performing arts school. Earlier this year, Lucie’s piano teacher encouraged her to […]
Ask a CHOC Doc: How do I properly use a spacer with my handheld inhaler?
A clinical pharmacy resident answers an asthma sufferer’s submitted question on how to properly use a spacer with a handheld inhaler.
Ask a CHOC Doc: Can I Use a Kitchen Spoon to Measure Medicine?
In this installment of Ask a CHOC Doc, we answer a parent’s submitted question on the best way to give medicine. Find out why kitchen spoons aren’t best.
