Staying Safe This Summer

The summer is here, and it’s important to be prepared to counsel patients on common summer concerns.

Medication storage. Some medications can be affected by high temperatures and humidity. Advise patients to store their medications in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them in a hot car or direct sunlight.

Hydration. During the summer months, it’s important to stay hydrated. Encourage patients to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.

Heat stroke. Heat stroke is a serious condition. Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of heat stroke, including high body temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Encourage patients to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of heat stroke.

Sun protection. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, so take the time to remind your customers about the importance of sun protection. Recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and remind patients to reapply it every 2 hours. Stocking your front end with a variety of these products is another way to maximize revenue.

Pest bites and stings. Pests such as mosquitoes and ticks are more active during the summer months. Advise patients on how to properly remove a tick if they are bitten.

Allergies. Spring isn’t the only allergy season; summer can also be challenging for patients living with allergies. Recommend OTC allergy medications to manage symptoms and remind patients to avoid outdoor activities during times when pollen counts are high.

Summer also offers an opportunity for pharmacists to maximize the return on their front-end investment. Keeping an inventory of high-quality products for sun protection, bites and stings, and allergies ensures that customers will shop your pharmacy, rather than online, for the products they need