DI-007 Assessment of the effect of patient education on compliance with antibiotic treatment in ambulatory patients

Abstract

Background Compliance has a crucial role for better therapeutic outcomes. Patient education correlates with compliance because informed patients are more conscious of their medicines. Many studies have highlighted the importance of taking antibacterial agents properly. Purpose To evaluate the effect of patient education on compliance with prescribed antibacterial agents. Material and methods A prospective, controlled trial was performed with 99 and 100 participants in a study group (better informed and educated) and control group (basic information), respectively. Participants completed a two-part questionnaire. The first part recorded socio-demographical info, diagnosis and details of prescribed antibiotics of the patients. The second part was presented one day after the end of the treatment. To measure the non-compliance, questions were asked about the number of pills remaining in blisters or containers, omitting the treatment or missing a dose, at what time patient took the drugs, feeling better or not and whether the patient leaflet had been read. Non-compliance was assessed both objectively using “tablet count” and subjectively using a “self-report”. Results The non-compliance rate was found to be statistically significantly higher in the control group compared to the study group (p Conclusion Higher compliance rates with antibacterial treatment and improved clinical outcomes were found in the study group. References Cals JW, Hopstaken RM, Le Doux PH, et al. Dose timing and patient compliance with two antibiotic treatment regimens for lower respiratory tract infections in primary care. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2008;31:531–6 Kardas P. Patient compliance with antibiotic treatment for respiratory tract infections. J Antimicrob Chemother 2002;49:897–903 No conflict of interest.