A survey of knowledge of interns about the instructions given to the patients while prescribing various dosage forms

Abstract

Introduction: Education of health care providers regarding the proper use of dosage forms is inadequate, contributing to prescription errors. Objectives : The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge of interns regarding the dosage forms and their administration techniques. Materials and Methods: Interns ready to solve questionnaire were allotted to Arm A (n = 153). For each correct multiple choice question (MCQ) answer scored 1 and each incorrect or unanswered MCQ was given 0 mark. The percentage marks obtained was calculated and re-allotted grade as per 10 point grade scale. The participants in Arm B (n = 93) had to perform demonstrations. Demonstrations which included metered dose inhaler (MDI), insulin injection, eye drops, and nasal drops were performed. Score 1 for correct step and score 0 for incorrect step was given. Percentage of interns solved each step in a demonstration was calculated. Both Arm A and B analyzed separately. Results: Analysis of the questionnaire (Arm A) showed the following grades: 6.54%, 24.18%, 28.10%, 22.88% 13.73%, and 4.57% i.e. interns scored grades as excellent, very good, good, satisfactory, sufficient to pass, and fail, respectively. In demonstration techniques (Arm B) for use of MDI, nasal drops, eye drops, preparation of 40 U of 10 U humulin-R and 30 U humulin-N in one syringe and subcutaneous administration of premixed insulin were assessed and it was observed that respectively 13.98% (13/93), 10.75% (10/93), 2% (2/93), 1% (1/93), and 27.96% (26/93) interns could demonstrate correctly. Conclusion: This study suggests theoretical knowledge is not sufficient. Very Few interns could demonstrate correctly this explains the need for emphasis on such exercises in curriculum.