More than half a century ago, ASHP (R) developed its earliest proposed practice standard-the Proposed Minimum Standards for Pharmacies in Hospitals.

Today, ASHP continues to foster concrete improvements in pharmacy practice and in the therapeutic use of drugs with its annual compilation of ASHP guidance documents: ASHP Best Practices. These guidance documents have stimulated improvements in pharmacy practice and operations, influenced accreditation standards, laws, and regulations (both in the United States and in other countries), and contributed to an awareness among consumers and policymakers of the vital patient care role of pharmacists.

The book includes ASHP positions and more than 80 ASHP guidance documents of varying scope that provide ongoing advice to practitioners and health systems to help improve the medication-use process, patient care and safety, and patient outcomes and quality of life.

Substantial content has been added or revised since the release of the 2017-2018 edition. New or revised material in this edition includes:

ASHP Guidelines on Preventing Medication Errors in Hospitals
ASHP-PPAG Guidelines for Providing Pediatric Pharmacy Services in Hospitals and Health Systems
ASHP Guidelines on Managing Drug Product Shortages
ASHP Guidelines for the Management of Investigational Drug Products
ASHP-HOPA Guidelines on the Roles and Responsibilities of the Pharmacy Technician in Ambulatory Oncology Pharmacy
ASHP Statement on Advocacy as a Professional Obligation