Atsushi Kawano – Pharmacist

Atsushi Kawano has been working as an inpatient pharmacist at PRHC for almost eight years. He is committed to achieving positive patient outcomes by optimizing medication therapy in collaboration with prescribers, nurses, pharmacy technicians, dietitians, and other allied health team members.

Along with direct patient care activities, Atsushi updates the hospital’s IV Manual and participates as a member of various committees – for example, Pharmacy and Therapeutics, and Medication Safety.

When asked what a typical day for an inpatient pharmacist looks like, Atsushi says: “For my assigned units, I triage patients based on acuity and the complexity of their medication regimen. For each patient, I evaluate the effectiveness of each medication and identify potential drug interactions to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Based on my clinical assessment, I develop care plans with the interdisciplinary team to manage medication therapy. If there are any medication-related issues, I meet with prescribers to review my findings and provide drug therapy recommendations. Aside from reviewing medication orders, I regularly receive drug information inquiries, with topics ranging from critical appraisal of new clinical trials to drug shortage solutions.”

WHY PRHC?

“I feel supported in my passion to provide patient-oriented care. PRHC is an organization that embraces interdisciplinary care through endless opportunities to build professional relationships across different specialities,” says Atsushi.

“PRHC supported me every step of the way while I was completing my Doctor of Pharmacy degree while working full-time. I am grateful to work for an organization that actively supports continuous education.”