Evaluation of clinical pharmacist mediated education and counselling of systemic lupus erythematosus patients in tertiary care hospital

Abstract

ObjectivesTo assess the knowledge of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients before and after clinical pharmacist's education and compare the same with the control group. MethodsIn this study done on patients with SLE, the test group patients were provided with education regarding SLE and its management including lifestyle modifications, via the distribution of patient information leaflets (PILs), while the control group were continued with conventional therapy. Validated knowledge assessment questionnaire was administered at baseline, first follow-up and final (second) follow-up to assess the medication knowledge of SLE patients. The Modified Morisky Scale (MMS) was used to assess the adherence at the final follow-up to study the influence of education. ResultsForty-five patients completed the 2 months follow-up study out of 50 enrolled patients. A significant (P < 0.001) improvement in the medication knowledge scores and medication adherence was seen in test group compared to the control group. The reasons for non-compliance included patients forgetfulness, high cost of medications, patients lack of access to hospital/drug store, lack of family support/motivation, fear of side effects, and fear of becoming dependent on treatment. ConclusionThe finding of this study showed that a well-structured SLE patient counselling by clinical pharmacist's intervention will result in improved medication knowledge and better medication adherence.