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30 PATY STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS Q+A with 2020 PATY state/territory winners With March being Endometriosis Awareness Month, in this issue of Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine, we chat with the 2020 Pharmacy Assistant of the Year state and territory winners to get their advice on managing the pain and the other symptoms women often experience during their menstrual cycle. We also ask for their advice on managing scrapes, cuts and bruises and what parents need to have on hand as first aid for their young ones. Joshua Edye, ACT – Erindale Pharmacy What is your advice to women who may experience issues with their monthly cycle? What can they do to reduce period pain, bloating, cravings and hormonal fluctuations each month? Endometriosis can have a major impact on a woman’s quality of life. Unfortunately, too many women put up with painful periods without seeing a medical professional for a proper diagnosis. If you’re suffering from painful periods, I’d encourage you to ask your pharmacist for advice. They can suggest the most suitable pain relief option for you. Inflammation is a major factor in the pain caused by endometriosis and can be effectively managed with NSAIDs \\\\\\\[nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs\\\\\\\], especially in combination with paracetamol. A hot water bottle on the stomach can also help. What is your advice to someone in terms of healing wounds, cuts, scrapes? What do parents need to have on hand in terms of first aid when out and about with their young ones? With the school year now in full swing, the odd cut and scrape is inevitable. Here are some things I keep on hand to alleviate life’s little mishaps: Bandaids. I like to keep a couple of regular bandaids in my wallet to deal with little cuts on the go. Antiseptic. Cuts and scrapes can become easily infected, especially in active young children. Keeping some Bepanthen or Betadine antiseptic on hand will help to disinfect small wounds. Vehicle first-aid kit. Accidents are bound to happen when you’re out and about. Be prepared and keep a first-aid kit in your car. Most pharmacies sell small, prepacked first aid kits which can be easily tucked into the back of the car. RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • MAR 2021