Survey of critical care education in US Colleges of Pharmacy

ObjectiveTo describe the extent to which critical care is included in Doctor of Pharmacy curricula in US Colleges of Pharmacy.MethodsA representative at each US College of Pharmacy was contacted to complete the online survey, which was distributed via e-mail.ResultsThe survey response rate was 54.1%. All the responding programs indicated that critical care topics were included in their curricula. Nearly all institutions responding indicated that critical care topics were included in the core curriculum and as available advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs), though markedly fewer institutions offered elective courses in critical care. Among the most commonly included topics were acute myocardial infarction and acid–base balance. Faculty commonly did not have an active critical care practice.ConclusionsOverall, exposure to critical care is prevalent, although there is variability in the nature and extent of exposure. Classic critical care topics are commonly discussed, whereas subspecialty topics are rarely included.