Episode 18: Mastering the Patient Workup: What You Need to Know + Other Clinical Care Tips

Episode 18: Mastering the Patient Workup: What You Need to Know + Other Clinical Care Tips

In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, is joined by William Xu, PharmD, for a practical discussion on one of the most intimidating yet essential clinical skills in pharmacy training: working up a patient. From identifying the chief complaint and prioritizing active problems to interpreting labs, reviewing medications, and making meaningful clinical interventions, Alina and William break down their step-by-step approach to inpatient patient workups. They share how their perspectives evolved from pharmacy students focused on memorizing every detail to residents learning how to prioritize what matters most for patient care. The conversation explores common medication-related interventions pharmacists make, including renal and hepatic dose adjustments, IV-to-PO conversions, antibiotic de-escalation, monitoring for adverse effects, and anticipating next steps in a patient's treatment plan. They also discuss the transition from student to resident responsibilities, balancing autonomy with asking questions, and developing the clinical reasoning needed to support recommendations to the healthcare team. Beyond patient workups, Alina and William share practical tips for staying organized on busy rotations, managing competing priorities, communicating effectively with preceptors and interdisciplinary teams, and avoiding the pressure to know everything immediately. Whether you're a pharmacy student preparing for APPE rotations, a new resident adjusting to clinical practice, or a pharmacist looking to refine your approach to patient care, this episode offers practical strategies, reassurance, and reminders that clinical confidence is built through repetition, feedback, and experience.

Episode 17: Studying for the CPJE & NAPLEX

In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, is joined by David Nguyen, PharmD, to break down the realities of preparing for two of pharmacy’s biggest licensure exams: the CPJE and NAPLEX. From choosing study resources and creating a realistic study schedule to managing stress and avoiding burnout, they share practical advice and personal insights to help pharmacy graduates navigate this challenging season with confidence. David reflects on his own experience studying for both exams, including what strategies worked best, common mistakes students make, and how to balance studying with work, life responsibilities, and the emotional pressure that often comes with licensure preparation. Together, Alina and David discuss how to approach difficult topics, build long-term retention, and stay motivated during weeks of intense studying. The conversation also dives into mindset and self-care during exam season. They talk about overcoming self-doubt, dealing with exam anxiety, and recognizing when taking a break is actually productive. Alina and David emphasize the importance of finding a study routine that works for you rather than comparing yourself to others, while also sharing tips for staying disciplined without becoming overwhelmed. Whether you’re just starting to prepare for the NAPLEX and CPJE or are deep into your study journey, this episode offers relatable encouragement, practical strategies, and reassurance that you’re not alone in the process. Disclaimer: This video was filmed approximately one year ago, so our current positions and circumstances may have changed; however, our advice remains the same.

Episode 16. Time Management for Busy Residents: Finding Balance + Self-Care Tips

In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, RPh, MBAc, is joined by Sofia Rodriguez, PharmD, MS, to tackle one of the biggest challenges in residency: time management. From juggling clinical responsibilities and presentations to keeping up with research projects and personal life, they dive into practical strategies to help residents stay organized, efficient, and balanced. Sofia shares her experience transitioning into residency—including moving across the country—and reflects on what surprised her most about the pace and demands of training. Together, they discuss how to build a sustainable routine, prioritize tasks effectively, and use helpful apps and tools to stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. The conversation also highlights the importance of self-care and recognizing early signs of burnout. Alina and Sofia offer actionable tips for checking in with yourself, setting boundaries, and maintaining your well-being throughout the year. They wrap up with advice for students preparing to start residency, focusing on how to set yourself up for success before day one. Whether you’re in the middle of residency or getting ready to begin, this episode offers relatable insights and practical tools to help you manage your time, protect your energy, and find balance in a demanding season.

Episode 15. Residency Projects: How to Choose and Execute a Great Project

In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, sits down with Abigail Klein, PharmD to discuss one of the most important—and often overwhelming—parts of pharmacy residency: the research project. Together, they break down how residents can thoughtfully choose a project, set realistic goals, and navigate the many moving parts involved in completing a meaningful study during a busy residency year. Abby shares insights from her emergency medicine–focused research examining antibiotic discordance in urinary tract infections caused by ESBL-producing organisms. Throughout the conversation, they explore practical strategies for evaluating potential projects, including assessing feasibility, understanding timelines, selecting supportive preceptors, and minimizing unnecessary variables. They also discuss common challenges residents encounter, such as coordinating multi-site collaborations, navigating IRB approval, managing data collection, and avoiding “scope creep” that can derail a project’s timeline. Alina and Abby reflect on lessons learned from their own experiences—including projects that didn’t go as planned—and share actionable advice to help future residents stay proactive, organized, and adaptable. Whether you’re preparing to start residency or already working on your research project, this episode offers practical guidance to help you execute a successful project while developing valuable research and communication skills.

Episode 14. Half-Way Mark Check-In

In this reflective episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD sits down with Gerald Loyola, PharmD for a candid six-month residency check-in. Gerald shares honest reflections on the highs, challenges, and unexpected lessons from the first half of residency, offering reassurance to residents who may be questioning their progress. They discuss what it truly means to develop clinical confidence, how growth happens through repetition and discomfort, and how learning to receive feedback constructively can accelerate both personal and professional development. The conversation also explores navigating different residency rotations, adjusting to new expectations with each service, and balancing multiple responsibilities at once. In the Q&A segment, Gerald shares practical strategies for staying organized while managing projects, presentations, and clinical duties. Whether you’re mid-residency or preparing to start, this episode is a reminder that growth isn’t always linear—and that feeling stretched often means you’re evolving into the clinician you’re meant to become.