The National Health Commission (NHC) has released a notification aimed at refining management measures for pediatric clinical medication. The goal is to drive improvements in pediatric healthcare quality and ensure the safe use of pediatric drugs.
Management of Drug Selection and Allocation
The notice proposes that medical institutions strengthen the management of drug selection and allocation for children. When selecting drugs for children—specifically those with clear indications and dosages listed in the drug instructions—the scope of drug use for children can be expanded beyond the usual hospital formulary restriction of “one variety, two dosage forms.”
Clinical Rational Use of Drugs
Medical institutions are urged to accurately grasp the indications for drug use, as well as the selection, administration methods, dose calculations, and potential adverse reactions for children of different ages. Institutions should ensure reasonable prescription practices and allocate drugs after passing relevant examinations.
Pharmaceutical Services and Support
The notice highlights the need for medical institutions to strengthen the allocation of pharmacists and provide pediatric pharmaceutical services. General hospitals, maternal and child health care hospitals, and specialized pediatric departments are encouraged to arrange trained pharmacists or clinical pharmacists to stay in the department. Qualified institutions are also encouraged to open pediatric pharmacy clinics.
Dosage Management and Quality Control
Medical institutions should accurately dispense drugs for children according to prescription dosages, especially for young children. The development of new technologies and methods that can flexibly adjust dosages and strengthen the standardized management and quality control of personalized medication is encouraged.
Monitoring and Education
The notice requires medical institutions to establish a comprehensive monitoring system covering the entire process of children’s drug procurement, storage, distribution, and use. Institutions should also strengthen dynamic monitoring and analysis of drug use. Additionally, medical institutions should provide guidance and education for children’s parents on common issues during and after medication. Establishing and improving medication follow-up systems, especially for discharged children with chronic diseases, is also emphasized. Parents should be guided to establish a scientific concept of drug use and improve awareness of safe drug use and children’s medication compliance.-Fineline Info & Tech
