Pharmaceutical Care Department in King Abdulaziz Hospital - Al Ahsa organized and hosted "your medications in Ramadan" events as a part of the awareness programs dedicated for this holy month, Regional Executive Director of National Guard Health Affairs - Eastern Region, Dr Ahmad Al Arfaj noted that "this event was launched to answer patients’ concerns and frequently asked questions about taking medications while fasting, its effect on the body and how to take them ".
He said "We have found a huge response from both visitors and staff, and the expected questions were about medications and how to take them in this holy month. The organizing committee affirmed the participation of various departments in thus event such as Religious Affairs, Diabetes Education as well as the Pharmaceutical Care Department; the participants answered the patients’ questions accordingly.”
The exhibition which was resourceful in the health education process regarding medications intake during Ramadan was attended by a large number of visitors. Specialists checked the patients’ electronic files before discussing their medications and providing them with the most appropriate and suitable ways to take them without affecting their fasting.
Diabetic patients listened to detailed explanation on how to maintain blood sugar levels, methods of taking medications, and some advice about breaking their fast. Specialists stressed on the nutritional balance and take advantage of this month in re-balancing their lives and bodies and to get away from all harmful effects. On the other hand, the Department of Religious Affairs answered all fasting related questions by handing out specialized fasting books and copies of the Holy Qura’an amongst the visitors.
Alongside the event, there was a painting corner for children in which a group of them colored, painted and drew. At the end, the organizing committee praised the participants of this exhibition explaining the need of such activities, as they noted a lot of misconceptions about medications and methods to take them during Ramadan which may put many patients at health risks.