Evaluation of knowledge, attitude and behavior of pharmacy staff about rational drug use

Abstract

Introduction: Irrational drug use is a severe problem affecting public health, increasing morbidity, mortality rates, and treatment costs. Healthcare personnel has important responsibilities in this regard. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of pharmacists, assistant pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians.Materials and Methods: Pharmacists, assistant pharmacists, and technicians working in pharmacies registered in an urban area were reached. Volunteers with the support extended to literature Turkey Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency, Department of Rational Drug Use ‘Survey of Hospital Pharmacists were required to be filled out online.Results: 156 pharmacy personnel voluntarily participated in the study. Of the volunteers, 48.1% were pharmacists, 4.5% pharmacy assistants, and 47.4% pharmacy technicians. 59% of the participants declared that they did not receive training on rational drug use. Among pharmacy technicians, this rate is 73%. All pharmacies monitor the drug monitoring with electronic devices or instant measurements by the responsible persons; 99.4% of the participants stated that they informed the patient about the storage conditions of the drug, and 84% informed the health personnel about the drug with a special preparation condition. 18.6% of the participants reported one or more adverse events in the last two years. It has been determined that there is no complete standardization in the disposal of residual/waste drugs for drugs from patients.Conclusion: In order to organize rational drug use training for pharmacy technicians, implement a standard method for waste residual medicine management, and increase feedback on pharmacovigilance practices, it is necessary to encourage the staff.