Lääkityshistorialla

Lääkityshistoria refers to the recorded history of a person's medications. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, and any other substances taken for health reasons. A comprehensive lääkityshistoria is a vital part of a patient's medical record.

The purpose of maintaining a lääkityshistoria is multifaceted. It helps healthcare professionals understand a patient's past and present treatment regimens, identify potential drug interactions, and assess the effectiveness of previous therapies. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about current and future medical care, ensuring patient safety, and avoiding adverse drug events. For instance, knowing a patient has a history of allergic reactions to certain medications is essential before prescribing new treatments.

A lääkityshistoria typically includes the name of the medication, dosage, frequency, route of administration, start and end dates, and the reason for its use. It may also document any side effects experienced and the patient's adherence to the prescribed regimen. Gathering this information is usually done through patient interviews, reviewing previous medical records, and consulting with other healthcare providers. In Finland, electronic health records play a significant role in compiling and accessing lääkityshistoria, facilitating continuity of care across different healthcare settings. Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date lääkityshistoria is a shared responsibility between patients and healthcare providers.