A Study of Drug Use in the Outpatient Pediatric Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

BACKGROUND
 The health care system around the world is concerned about rational drug use. To achieve this goal, the more vulnerable pediatric population necessitates additional attention. The study's objectives were to determine the most prevalent diseases and medications administered, as per WHO recommendations, by looking at prescription trends and the ailments for which they were prescribed.
 Objective
 The objective of this study was to find drug use in the outpatient pediatric department of a tertiary care hospital in Jammu and Kashmir.
 METHODS
 This four-month prospective study was undertaken in the paediatrics department of a tertiary care hospital in Jammu and Kashmir. The Institutional Ethical Committee gave its nod to the investigation, which was then carried out. The parent's or guardian's consent was obtained after discussion and explanation. The patient's and the prescriber's privacy were protected. Every pediatric prescription (from newborn to 12 years old) from the outpatient, inpatient, and critical care units was included in the research.
 RESULTS
 There were 498 prescriptions in total that were randomly collected and studied. There were a total of 1895 prescriptions, with an average of 4.01 per encounter. Prescriptions from the WHO's essential drug list (666) accounted for 35.14 percent of all prescriptions. There were 397 prescriptions written for antibiotics in total. A total of 79.72 percent of patient encounters involved an antibiotic prescription. The prescribed injections were used in 26.2% of the encounters.
 CONCLUSION
 With all the indicators, this study gives a positive outlook on drug use, especially for those on the EDL (Essential Drug List). It is possible to improve health care through regular auditing, continuous medical education, and evidence-based medicine (EBM). Drug prescribing patterns in a pediatric outpatient department have been analyzed in this research. To summarize, the role of the clinical pharmacist is critical in pediatrics, both as an integral part of the care team and in clearing up any confusion about the appropriate use of medications. As a pediatric patient, proper drug management is even more critical than for an adult. The prescribing patterns were improved, substantial issues with patients' or caretakers' grasp of consultant instructions were found, and even the financial burden on the patient was lessened with the aid of the WHO core indicators.