Assessment of drug interaction knowledge in Alula's healthcare staff.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Assessment of the attitude and knowledge of drug-drug interactions among healthcare professionals in prince abdul-mohsin hospital in alula, saudi arabia
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:
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Maher Albalawi and Dalia Sharf Eldeen
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Assessment of the attitude and knowledge of drug-drug interactions among healthcare professionals in prince abdul-mohsin hospital in alula, saudi arabia
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201913-16308
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) present significant challenges in the healthcare domain due to their potential to cause adverse drug events and increase healthcare costs. This study aimed to assess healthcare professionals' (HCPs) attitudes and knowledge concerning DDIs at Prince Abdul-Mohsin Hospital in Alula, Saudi Arabia. The hypothesis posited a significant weakness in HCPs’ backgrounds regarding DDIs, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and improved training programs to mitigate risks associated with medication management.
Attitudes of Healthcare Professionals Towards DDIs
The assessment revealed that although healthcare professionals held a positive attitude towards the importance of recognizing and reporting DDIs, their practical knowledge was limited. A notable finding was that 100% of respondents acknowledged DDIs as a critical concern and felt responsible for reporting them. Despite this awareness, only 24% of the respondents had participated in any training programs on DDIs. Most professionals indicated a desire for continuous education, highlighting a gap between awareness and practical training in the field.
Knowledge Assessment of HCPs
Evaluation of HCPs' knowledge concerning DDIs demonstrated a concerningly low performance level, with an average correct response rate of only 36%. This figure reflects inadequate knowledge across different professions (physicians, pharmacists, and nurses), with no significant differences in scores among them. The study underscored that limited training opportunities likely contributed to this deficiency, as most respondents had not undergone any specialized instruction regarding DDIs.
Sources of Information and Training Needs
Regarding sources of information, textbooks emerged as the most utilized resource, cited by 42.5% of the respondents, whereas pharmacy services were notably underused, with only 2.5% of participants relying on them. This discrepancy could indicate a lack of accessible drug information services within the hospital. Additionally, the study identified a strong demand for computer software that could assist HCPs in identifying potential DDIs, with 98.75% of respondents expressing interest in such solutions. This illustrates the critical role that technology can play in improving medication safety practices.
Conclusion
The findings from this study on HCPs at Prince Abdul-Mohsin Hospital indicate a substantial deficit in the knowledge of drug-drug interactions, despite an overall awareness of their importance. While the attitudes towards reporting and understanding DDIs were positive, the limited training and inadequate utilization of reliable information sources highlighted crucial areas for improvement. Moving forward, establishing comprehensive training programs and drug information centers, as well as leveraging technological resources, will be vital to enhance the competencies of HCPs in managing potential drug interactions effectively.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main aim of the study on DDIs?
The main aim of the study was to assess the attitudes and knowledge of healthcare professionals regarding drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in Prince Abdul-Mohsin Hospital in Alula, Saudi Arabia.
What method was used to collect data for this study?
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire, divided into three sections addressing socio-demographic characteristics, HCPs attitudes, and knowledge of DDIs.
What were the general findings regarding HCPs' knowledge of DDIs?
The study found that the overall knowledge of DDIs among healthcare professionals was poor, with an average correct response rate of only 36%.
How many HCPs had encountered serious DDIs in practice?
Out of the respondents, 74 healthcare professionals, which is 46.3%, reported that they had come across serious DDIs during their practice.
What resources were primarily cited for information on DDIs?
The primary source of information for DDIs was textbooks, cited by 42.5% of respondents, followed by websites at 35%.
What recommendations did the study make to improve DDI knowledge?
Recommendations included improving continuous on-job training for HCPs, establishing a drug information center, and implementing software programs to help identify potential DDIs effectively.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Assessment of drug interaction knowledge in Alula's healthcare staff.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
The plurality 'drugs' encompasses all medications that healthcare professionals must manage, understanding their interactions. Increased polypharmacy, particularly in elderly populations, raises the importance of identifying and managing potential drug-drug interactions to prevent adverse effects and hospitalizations associated with concurrent medication use.
2) Knowledge:
Knowledge, in the context of this study, refers to the understanding healthcare professionals have regarding drug-drug interactions. It was assessed to determine whether HCPs possess adequate information to identify and manage DDIs, which is vital for ensuring patient safety and combating potential medication-related problems.
3) Training:
Training indicates the educational programs aimed at enhancing healthcare professionals' understanding of drug-drug interactions. The study identified inadequate training as a significant issue, suggesting that improving DDI training is essential for enhancing HCPs competency in recognizing and managing these interactions effectively.
4) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' refers to the research conducted at Prince Abdul-Mohsin Hospital to assess the attitudes and knowledge of drug-drug interactions among healthcare professionals. This study contributes to understanding the current state of DDI awareness and can drive improvements in training and patient care.
5) Table:
In the document, tables are utilized to present data in a structured format, making it easier to understand the demographics, attitudes, and knowledge scores of healthcare professionals. They facilitate comparisons and highlight key findings regarding DDI awareness and education levels among respondents.
6) Education:
Education refers to the process of imparting knowledge. The study emphasizes the role of continuous education in enhancing the understanding of drug-drug interactions among healthcare professionals, highlighting its importance in improving patient safety, treatment efficacy, and overall healthcare outcomes.
7) Attending:
Attending relates to healthcare professionals' participation in training programs or workshops concerning drug-drug interactions. The study found a significant number of respondents were interested in such programs, indicating a recognition of the need for ongoing professional development to improve their DDI knowledge.
8) Male:
The term 'male' denotes a demographic characteristic of study respondents. The gender distribution is relevant as it may influence the perspectives and experiences of healthcare professionals in managing drug-drug interactions, potentially affecting the overall findings and implications of the study.
9) Disease:
Diseases represent the medical conditions necessitating treatment and medication, an essential aspect of the study. Understanding that patients may have multiple diseases informs healthcare professionals about the higher likelihood of drug-drug interactions and their impact on patient management.
10) Reason:
Reason signifies the underlying motivations or causes for particular outcomes identified within the study. It suggests exploring training deficits, information sources, and the adequacy of current practices related to drug-drug interactions and serves as a basis for recommendations to improve practices.
11) Field:
Field pertains to the area of healthcare being examined—specifically, the management of drug-drug interactions. This term indicates the scope of the study, which encompasses the practices and knowledge of healthcare professionals, emphasizing the importance of this specialty in patient care.
12) Pur:
Poor is used to describe the inadequate knowledge and training of healthcare professionals regarding drug-drug interactions found in the study. This term underscores the need for significant improvements in DDI education and awareness to promote patient safety and effective treatment.
13) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the science of drugs and their effects on living systems. This term highlights the importance of understanding how drugs interact with one another at a biochemical level, which is vital for managing patient treatments and preventing adverse drug interactions.
14) Measurement:
Measurement refers specifically to the process of quantifying healthcare professionals' knowledge regarding drug-drug interactions. Accurate measurement is critical for identifying gaps and informing future training programs aimed at improving the competence of HCPs in managing DDIs effectively.
15) Reliability:
Reliability refers to the consistency and dependability of the assessment tool used in the study. A high reliability coefficient assures that the findings regarding healthcare professionals' knowledge and attitudes toward drug-drug interactions are trustworthy and valid for guiding future training efforts.
16) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the critical analysis and interpretation of the study's findings. It provides context to the data presented, allowing researchers to draw conclusions, highlight implications for practice, and suggest recommendations based on the observed knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals.
17) Bleeding:
Bleeding, mentioned in relation to drug-drug interactions, highlights potential clinical consequences that can arise from these interactions. Recognizing that certain DDIs may lead to increased bleeding risks underscores the importance of awareness and preventive measures among healthcare professionals.
18) India:
India is referenced to contextualize comparative studies or findings related to drug-drug interaction knowledge or practices. This geographical reference can serve to benchmark the findings of this study against similar populations or healthcare practices in other regions.
19) Doubt:
Doubt implies uncertainty regarding healthcare providers' knowledge about drug-drug interactions. Recognizing doubt can inform future educational initiatives aimed at reinforcing confidence and competence in the recognition and management of DDIs among healthcare professionals.
20) Post:
Post signifies the stage after an intervention or education, emphasizing the importance of evaluating knowledge or behavior changes following training programs for healthcare professionals. This aids in assessing the effectiveness of educational measures to improve understanding of drug-drug interactions.