Keele Research Repository

Introduction: Empirical evidence is lacking regarding transition to community pharmacy practice[1]; this study explores one aspect of transition, dealing with ethical dilemmas.

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of alumni from one UK School of Pharmacy on how prepared they felt to deal with ethical problems during their preregistration year and early careers practice.

Method: A semi‐structured interview schedule was developed based on current literature and the aim of the study. This qualitative study was part of a larger investigation. Interviewees were recruited in 2015 via an invitation included in a questionnaire that was sent to all alumni who had graduated in the previous 3 years, were resident in the UK, and had provided contact addresses. Additional participants were recruited from final‐year students, for interview in their preregistration year. Interviews were conducted in a variety of settings, lasted 50–120 min and were audiotaped. Verbatim transcripts were coded and analysed using framework analysis.[1] University Research Ethics Committee approval was obtained.

Results: Nine preregistration trainees (PRTs) and nine pharmacists (up to 2 years qualified), of varying ethnicities, were interviewed. Five were male. Two main themes emerged.