Assessment of the knowledge and practice of pediatric pharmacy among hospital pharmacists in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The importance of pediatric pharmacy practice cannot be overemphasized in a country with high morbidity in children. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of pediatric pharmacy among hospital pharmacists, Delta State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study of hospital pharmacists from 10 randomly selected hospitals was done with the aid of a self-administered questionnaire. Fifty- two of the 90 (57.8%) questionnaires were analyzed, 41 (78.8%) respondents had pediatric units in their facilities and 6 (11.5%) had undertaken specialized courses in pediatric pharmacy. The overall knowledge score of pediatric pharmacy among the respondents was 48%. Forty-seven (90.4%) knew children handle medicines differently from adults, 45 (86.5%) knew young and older children respond to medicines differently. Forty-three (82.7%) respondents provided incorrect responses on oral absorption of rifampicin and phenobarbitone and 39(75.0%) for penicillins; 49(94.2%) lacked knowledge as to whether weight is the most accurate method of dosage calculation. Nineteen (36.5%) had dispensed unlicensed medicines, 47 (90.4%) had engaged in extemporaneous preparation, 41 (78.9%) had access to pediatric-tailored drug information sources and at least 38 (73.1%) could advice on measurement of small volumes of oral dosage formulation. Overall knowledge of the respondents was below average score but practice was nonetheless encouraging.