Provision Of Pharmaceutical Care Research Articles

The growing role of pharmacists in society and prospects for their professional activities

Aim. To analyze the changes in the professional functions of pharmacists because of the growing social burden on pharmacies, as well as the prospects for this profession. Materials and methods. The objects of the study were regulatory legal acts on the regulation of pharmaceutical activities; modern approaches to the organization of pharmaceutical care and services to the population in Ukraine. To achieve this goal, the following methods were used: bibliographic, historical, content analysis, analytical-comparative, systematization and generalization. Results and discussion. Analyzed the legal acts of the period of Ukraine's independence aimed at forming a patient-oriented model of pharmacy functioning, in particular, the introduction of international quality standards, intensification of state policy to ensure the availability of medicines for the population, and elaboration of the requirements of good pharmacy practice at the present stage. It is proposed that the classical functions of pharmacy institutions (trade, production, information and social), due to the increasing content of the professional roles of pharmacists with the social component of their activities, should be outlined by complex conceptual categories formed from two fundamental activities – socio-economic, trade and production, information and communication, and social and humanitarian. The article considers the prospects for a pharmacist who, at the level of secondary specialization, can acquire new competencies in accordance with the professional standard and further apply for the position of a healthcare professional. As an example, the author characterizes the pharmacist's participation in the pharmacovigilance system – notifying the patient about the possibility of adverse reactions and the algorithm of actions in such a situation, collecting information on adverse drug reactions and health risks, filling out a card-notification of adverse reaction and/or lack of effectiveness of therapy. Conclusions. The expansion of the content of the professional functions of pharmacists and the growth of their role in society due to the increase in social burden contributes to the formation of a patient-oriented model of pharmacy functioning, but requires the implementation of the requirements of good pharmacy practice and the revision of related regulations to ensure the conditions for the quality provision of pharmaceutical care and services.

Bibliometric analysis of scientific literature on the use of suppositories in the treatment of prostate cancer patients

Nowadays, cancer remains one of the main causes of death worldwide. Statistical data from various literary sources indicate that more than 130,000 people in Ukraine receive this diagnosis as a sentence every year. Cancer can affect any organs of the human body and, over time, the entire organism. In 2024, the agency of the World Health Organization on cancer and the International Agency of Cancer Research published the latest statistical estimates of this pathology in a global format, where prostate cancer is among the five most common oncological pathologies and takes the fourth place. Oncological diseases are one of the priority areas of healthcare development in accordance with the Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine No. 1832 dated 07.10.2022 “On Approval of Priority Areas of Healthcare Development for 2023–2025”. It was this fact that determined the choice of the direction of this research in the matter of finding information on the provision of pharmaceutical care, namely the use of a drug – a rectal suppository for the treatment of prostate cancer. The aim of the work is to carry out a bibliometric analysis and further generalize the data of the scientific literature to study the prognostic value and features of the prescription of suppositories in the treatment of prostate cancer. Materials and methods. The data search was conducted in the PubMed electronic database using the following key terms: “prostate cancer and suppositories”, “prostate cancer”. To monitor and analyze international scientific research, with the help of visualization tools and modern SciVal citation metrics using the online platform, bibliometric analysis can be performed. Using the VOSviewer functional program, bibliometric networks were constructed and visualized. Results. A map of the relationships between the most used keywords on the topics of “prostate cancer” and “prostate cancer and suppositories”, grouped into clusters for the period from 1986 to 2024, was built. The clustering of the most used keywords on the subject of “prostate cancer” for the specified period is summarized. According to the bibliographic analysis, interest in the above topic was highest in 2014 and 2021. Conclusions. According to the bibliographic analysis, the interest in the subject of the patients’ treatment with prostate cancer disease continues to grow from 1998 up to the present. The analysis of publication activity using the visualization tool of bibliometric networks VOSviewer for the period from 2014 to 2024 for the key words “prostate cancer” has shown the presence of 14 clusters. The largest cluster is devoted to modern methods of prostate cancer treatment, studies of gene rearrangement, target therapy, carcinogenesis.

Pharmaceutical care for patients with coronary heart disease: transformation of pharmaceutical practice

The implementation of the National Recovery Plan of Ukraine in the field of “Health Care”, namely the restoration of the pharmaceutical sector, improving the population’s access to medicines and their proper use, taking into account the regulatory and legal field harmonized with European legislation, in the context of providing the qualified pharmaceutical care and pharmaceutical services requires application of modern approaches based on evidence-based medicine and implementation in pharmaceutical practice. Patients with cardiovascular diseases, who are provided with medication under the Reimbursement Program and prescriptions from doctors, must be accompanied by pharmaceutical care based on evidence-based medicine to ensure proper use of drugs and rational pharmacotherapy. The aim of the study was to investigate Ukrainian information and scientific databases, scientometric databases, i. e.: Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library to identify, generalize, and systematize scientific sources of medical and pharmaceutical data on providing patient-oriented pharmaceutical care to patients with coronary heart disease and predict the future vector of research on the specified topic. Results. The analysis of the main strategies of providing pharmaceutical care to patients with cardiovascular diseases, in particular, coronary heart disease in pharmaceutical practice was carried out; the most researched clusters of providing pharmaceutical care were identified; modern trends and tendencies in the provision of pharmaceutical care to patients with coronary heart disease were summarized. Conclusions. The development of providing qualified pharmaceutical care to patients with cardiovascular diseases is based on the principles of patient-oriented pharmacy and evidence-based medicine, which requires the design and implementation into the pharmaceutical practice of a sustainable conceptual model of providing patient-oriented pharmaceutical care by clinical pharmacists and pharmacists of pharmacy institutions with the expansion of the main roles, respectively the standards of Good Pharmacy Practice.

Modern Classification of Respiratory Diseases: Innovations in the International Classification of Diseases of the 11th Revision

A comprehensive analysis has been performed on the innovations in the classification of respiratory diseases introduced in ICD-11, comparing it with the previous ICD-10 version. This analysis underscores the critical importance of implementing a more detailed and systematic approach to categorizing diseases of the respiratory system. The enhancements found in ICD-11 have been proven to open up new opportunities for the timely and high-quality provision of medical and pharmaceutical care. This is particularly significant for patients suffering from various injuries, including those resulting from traffic accidents, participation in combat operations, and thoracic injuries. The updated classification system in ICD-11 allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment plans, which is essential for improving patient outcomes. By providing a more granular level of detail in disease categorization, healthcare professionals can better understand the nuances of respiratory conditions. This leads to more effective communication among doctors, pharmacists, and patients, thereby improving the legal and professional relationships within the healthcare system. Integrating the ICD-11 classification into educational and training programs is essential for advancing the qualifications of specialists. By incorporating it into curricula and professional development programs, medical practitioners can stay abreast of the latest advancements in disease classification and patient care. This integration is also vital for eliminating medical errors, as a more detailed classification system reduces the likelihood of misdiagnosis and improper treatment. Furthermore, adopting ICD-11 supports the ongoing development of the healthcare sector in Ukraine. It aligns the country's medical practices with international standards, facilitating better collaboration with global health organizations. This alignment is crucial for enhancing the overall quality of healthcare services provided to the population. In conclusion, the transition to ICD-11 represents a significant advancement in the classification of respiratory diseases. Its implementation is imperative for improving medical and pharmaceutical care, enhancing specialist training programs, and strengthening the doctor-pharmacist-patient relationship. Embracing this updated classification system will not only reduce medical errors but also contribute to the further development of Ukraine's healthcare sector.

Delivery of enhanced asthma care in pharmacies: Perceptions and experiences of Australian service providers

BackgroundEvidence-based asthma management services have been tested in Australian community pharmacies for over 2 decades and have been well received by patients but are not retained in practice. The positive clinical outcomes of these tested services suggest the potential for wider implementation, for which the providers’ perspective is critical. ObjectiveThis investigation evaluates the implementability of the Pharmacy Asthma Service (PAS) through the experiences and perceptions of the community pharmacists delivering the service. MethodsForty-eight pharmacists took part in a posttrial semi-structured qualitative telephone interview, representing 42 of 51 (82%) eligible PAS intervention arm pharmacies. Qualitative data were deductively analyzed in accordance with the Implementation Outcomes Framework. ResultsPharmacists recognized the positive impact of the service on patients’ health outcomes, the pharmacist’s practice, and in fostering stronger and more beneficial pharmacist-patient relationships. However, whilst acknowledging the importance of such a service, the pharmacists faced challenges in recruitment and patient follow-up. Pharmacists stated that further work is required to address pharmacist and patient time constraints, patient health beliefs and to increase the acceptance of pharmaceutical care provision in community pharmacy practice by patients and other health care professionals. ConclusionPharmacists can deliver enhanced clinical care for asthma patients with positive perceived professional and patient outcomes. However, it remains evident that time, remuneration, and recognition of the pharmacist’s role in chronic care management form barriers to the implementation of asthma services in community pharmacies. Broader policy and systemic changes are required to successfully balance medication supply and quality patient management roles at the same time as a required shift in research processes.

Community pharmacists' attitudes and barriers toward providing pharmaceutical care for people with mental disorders in Enugu City, Nigeria

BackgroundIn Nigeria, the attitudes of community pharmacists toward providing pharmaceutical care (PC) for people with mental illnesses remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the community pharmacists’ attitudes and barriers toward providing PC services for clients with mental disorders in Enugu, Nigeria.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among all eligible community pharmacists in Enugu, Nigeria. The data were obtained using validated self-administered questionnaire adapted from the literature and a sociodemographic form. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square/Fisher’s Exact test. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant.ResultsA total of 155 community pharmacists took part in the survey, giving a response rate of 95.6%. The findings showed that more than half of the community pharmacists (n = 80, 51.6%) had positive attitudes toward providing PC services for patients with mental illness. Positive attitudes were associated with having a family member with mental illness (p = 0.038) and a good self-rated knowledge of mental illness (p < 0.001). The most frequently reported barriers to PC were patient factors associated with their symptoms (59.4%) and a lack of patient information (52.9%).ConclusionThe attitudes of community pharmacists toward providing PC for patients with mental illness is largely positive but suboptimal. Patient factors related to their symptoms were cited as the major obstacle to providing PC. Therefore, continued education and training and supportive environment are encouraged to improve the situation.

Barriers to pharmaceutical care provision in the community and hospital pharmacies of Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundAlthough pharmaceutical care has tangible positive importance in ensuring patient pharmacotherapy safety, its provision encounters several barriers. Therefore, this study investigated the obstacles pharmacy professionals faced while providing pharmaceutical care in Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from July 30, 2022, to August 30, 2022, at all community and hospital pharmacies in Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia. The data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed via SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive statistics and statistical analysis tests, such as the independent t-test, variance, and multiple linear regressions, were employed to analyze the data.ResultsThe study had a 97.7% response rate. Among the 130 participants, 71 (54.6%) were females. The mean (± SD) total score of pharmaceutical care provision barriers was 85.06 (± 20.2). The highest and lowest mean subscale scores of pharmaceutical care provision barriers were related to lack of resources and skill, respectively. Among resource-related barriers, lack of time and money, lack of trained staff, and lack of private space for consultation scored higher than other barriers. Concerning vision/attitudinal barriers, patients and other healthcare workers’ inappropriate attitudes toward pharmaceutical care obtained the highest scores. The lack of clinical education in pharmaceutical care, lack of communication, and lack of documentation skills of pharmacists scored higher than other barriers in the educational and skill-related barriers subscales. For the regulatory/environmental subscale, a lack of clinical practice guidelines and legal barriers scored higher than the other subscales did. Pharmaceutical care provision barriers were significantly associated with age (B = 14.008), years of practice (B = 13.009), and graduating institution (B=-16.773).ConclusionsResource and attitudinal/vision-related barriers were reported to be the most common barriers to pharmaceutical care implementation. Stakeholders should work together to develop strategic solutions to overcome these barriers and thus achieve optimal pharmaceutical care provision. These strategies should include optimizing the number of trained pharmacy staff, time and financial problems should be resolved, communication and documentation skills should be improved, pharmacy layouts should incorporate private counseling rooms, policies that support the pharmacist’s role in patient care should be developed, and effective training and continuing professional education programs should be offered.

Assessment of Community Pharmacists’ Knowledge and Perception of Pharmaceutical Care in South Africa: A Cross-sectional Survey

Background: Medicines are intended to cure, prevent, or diagnose diseases, alleviate signs, or symptoms, but improper use can cause patient morbidity and even mortality. Pharmacists assume direct responsibility for all the patient’s drug-related needs. Hence, pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes regarding pharmaceutical care (PC) and their perceived barriers to PC provision are imperative to treatment success. The aim of the study was to explore community pharmacists’ knowledge and perception towards pharmaceutical care and identifying perceived barriers towards its implementation in South Africa. Methods: A quantitative study was undertaken, using a descriptive cross-sectional design. The data were collected by means of an online questionnaire completed by community pharmacists across South Africa. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, through Microsoft Excel and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: Out of 250 online questionnaires sent, a total of 181 responded, which delivered an 72.4% response rate. The vast majority (n=166; 91.7%) of the respondents were knowledgeable about PC though a few (n=15; 8.3%) of the respondents had a poor understanding of PC. A high number of respondents (n=173;95.5%) agreed that providing PC would increase the patients’ confidence in the pharmacy profession (n=173; 95.5%); and about 87.2% responded that all pharmacists should provide PC services. Lack of compensation for PC provision was perceived as the main barrier (83.9%). Conclusion: South African community pharmacists have good knowledge of PC, but a lack of remuneration and time were perceived as the main barriers to PC provision. Relevant stake holders like policymakers in pharmaceutical service, health care financial managers, and pharmacy managers should intervene to overcome these barriers.

Investigation on pharmaceutical care barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China

ObjectiveThis study aimed to understand the current status of pharmaceutical care barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China, and to provide a reference for further improving the quality of pharmaceutical care and perfecting the construction of pharmaceutical care system in China. MethodsThe PCBS-CH scale (Pharmaceutical Care Barriers Scale in Chinese Hospitals) was used to measure the perceived pharmaceutical care barriers of clinical pharmacists, and descriptive statistical analysis was used to identify the main barriers faced by clinical pharmacists. The different barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists with various characteristics was investigated by subgroup analysis. ResultsA total of 1266 clinical pharmacists from 31 provinces were finally included. The results revealed that the main barriers faced by clinical pharmacists in the process of implementing pharmaceutical care included lack of additional staffing, lack of time for pharmaceutical care provision and continuing education, and lack of an electronic information system and prescription evaluation system for pharmaceutical care. Subgroup analysis found that clinical pharmacists who are without training (P < 0.001), worked in tertiary hospitals (P = 0.036), and had other training certificates (P < 0.001) perceived higher pharmaceutical care barriers. ConclusionClinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China have a low perception of overall pharmaceutical care barriers, but still face some important barriers. In order to promote the development of pharmaceutical care in China, the quality of clinical pharmacists should be improved, strict entry criteria should be established, clear responsibilities should be defined, the rights of female clinical pharmacists should be protected, and hospital facilities should be upgraded.

Pharmaceutical care for patients with headaches: pharmacists' statements and pharmacy practice

Relevance. According to the World Health Organization, headaches are one of the most common symptoms of nervous system diseases. Pharmacists play an important role in communicating with headache patients, as well as in rationally directing self-treatment.Aim. Using the questionnaire and patient’s simulation method, comparing the results of these studies, to evaluate the quality of pharmaceutical care for patients with headaches.Material and methods. An anonymous survey was conducted among 153 pharmacists. Three different trained simulated patients (SP) allegedly suffering from headaches visited 101 pharmacies. The results were recorded visually and on a voice recorder. The commercial segment of the Russian pharmaceutical market for analgesics was analyzed.Results. The leaders in sales in ATC-subgroups were the following INN: Ibuprofen, Paracetamol+Naproxen+Caffeine+Drotaverine+ Pheniramine. Corresponding trade names are most often recommended based on the results of questionnaires and simulated patient methodology (SPM). Prescription drugs (13.1 %/14.9 % in SPM) that shouldn’t be recommended in the pharmacy and combination drugs (87.6 %/91.1 % in SPM) were frequently mentioned. A similar number of INN (20/23) and trade names (52/53) were named. The average number of trade names recommended by one pharmacist was higher in the SPM. In SPM the patient was asked very few questions and almost no information about the drug was specified.Conclusion. The real involvement of pharmacists in the provision of pharmaceutical care to patients with cephalgia appears to be much lower, in contrast to the stated results of the questionnaire. In real pharmacy practice, the approach to interaction with a patient with headache and counselling is formal and requires standardization: the development of protocols, standards and algorithms for interaction with patients with headache based on clinical guidelines.

'I think we could probably do more': an interview study to explore community pharmacists' experiences and perspectives of frailty and optimising medicines use in frail older adults.

Community pharmacists potentially have an important role to play in identification of frailty and delivery of interventions to optimise medicines use for frail older adults. However, little is known about their knowledge or views about this role. To explore community pharmacists' knowledge of frailty and assessment, experiences and contact with frail older adults, and perceptions of their role in optimising medicines use for this population. Semi-structured interviews conducted between March and December 2020 with 15 community pharmacists in Northern Ireland. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Three broad themes were generated from the data. The first, 'awareness and understanding of frailty', highlighted gaps in community pharmacists' knowledge regarding presentation and identification of frailty and their reluctance to broach potentially challenging conversations with frail older patients. Within the second theme, 'problem-solving and supporting medication use', community pharmacists felt a large part of their role was to resolve medicines-related issues for frail older adults through collaboration with other primary healthcare professionals but feedback on the outcome was often not provided upon issue resolution. The third theme, 'seizing opportunities in primary care to enhance pharmaceutical care provision for frail older adults', identified areas for further development of the community pharmacist role. This study has provided an understanding of the views and experiences of community pharmacists about frailty. Community pharmacists' knowledge deficits about frailty must be addressed and their communication skills enhanced so they may confidently initiate conversations about frailty and medicines use with older adults.

ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ СТРУКТУРЫ ПОТРЕБЛЕНИЯ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННЫХ ПРЕПАРАТОВ У БОЛЬНЫХ БРОНХИАЛЬНОЙ АСТМОЙ В СТАЦИОНАРАХ КЫРГЫЗСКОЙ РЕСПУБЛИКИ

Bronchial asthma (BA) is one of the socially significant diseases, characterized by a high frequency of seeking medical help and mortality. The most important parameter in studies of drug consumption is the study of the structure of their use, which includes the volume of use and a number of qualitative characteristics of the use of drugs of the group being studied. Modern approaches to pharmacotherapy of asthma also include the use of drugs in combinations; such drug therapy makes it possible to control the course of asthma, which affects morbidity, mortality, quality of life and the quality of provision of pharmaceutical and medical care to the population. Aim. Study of the frequency and structure of prescription of drugs used in the pharmacotherapy of bronchial asthma. Matherials and Methods. During a retrospective pharmacoepidemiological study, 500 individual registration records of patients with bronchial asthma who were hospitalized for the period 2020 - 2023 were analyzed. in healthcare organizations of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic. Results. When analyzing the number of prescribed medications, it was found that in the pharmacotherapy of 500 patients with bronchial asthma in different combinations, 11 names of medications under international nonproprietary names and 26 medications under trade names were used, while the total number of prescribed medications per patient varied from 1 to 5 types of drugs in 62 different combinations. Of the combinations of salbutamol with drugs from other pharmacological groups, the leading ones were the simultaneous administration of 3 drugs: Salbutamol + Ambroxol + Theophylline; for beclomethasone, a combination of 5 drugs: Beclomethasone + Salbutamol + Ambroxol + Salbutamol + Theophylline; for salmeterol, a combination of 5 drugs: Salmeterol + Fluticacone, Salbutamol, Acetylcysteine, Salbutamol. Conclusions. A study of the structure of medications used in the hospital in the treatment of patients with bronchial asthma made it possible to establish that the largest share of drug prescriptions was for the treatment regimen Beclomethasone + Salbutamol + Ambroxol + Salbutamol + Theophylline, which was used in the treatment of 67 patients. The regimen Salbutamol + Ambroxol + Theophylline was used in the treatment of 62 patients and the prevailing treatment regimens were Salmeterol + Fluticacone, Salbutamol, Ambroxol, Theophylline and Salmeterol + Fluticacone, Salbutamol, Ambroxol, Salbutamol, Theophylline, each of which was used in the treatment of 28 patients.

Hospital pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes and practice of pharmaceutical care and the barriers for its implementation at the hospital setting

ObjectiveTo assess hospital pharmacists' understanding of pharmaceutical care and their attitudes regarding the adoption of the patient-centered model, as well as investigate Jordan's current state of pharmaceutical care implementation and the associated barriers. MethodsA validated survey was distributed to hospital pharmacists in different major tertiary hospitals in Jordan. The study questionnaire contained five sections to assess sociodemographic characteristics, pharmacists’ understanding of pharmaceutical care, attitudes towards pharmaceutical care, potential barriers that may limit the delivery of pharmaceutical care, and the extent of pharmaceutical care implementation in the hospital setting. ResultsThe survey was completed by 152 hospital pharmacists. Participants in this study demonstrated adequate levels of knowledge about pharmaceutical care (Mean = 9.36 out of 11, SD = 1.23) and expressed favorable perceptions of pharmaceutical care (mean = 3.77 out of 5; SD = 0.7). Although more than one-third of the pharmacists practiced pharmaceutical care, the study revealed a number of impediments to the delivery of pharmacological care services. Regression analysis revealed that age (P < 0.05) and years of experience (P < 0.05) were significant predictors of knowledge, while age (P < 0.05), gender (P < 0.05), the graduation university (governmental vs. private) (P < 0.05), and years of experience (P < 0.05) were significant predictors of attitude. Furthermore, Doctor of Pharmacy degree holders had fewer barriers to pharmaceutical care implementation but were more actively involved in pharmaceutical care practice than those with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 respectively). Pharmacists with a Master's degree or higher in pharmacy were more actively involved in pharmaceutical care practice than those with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree (P < 0.05). Pharmacists working in the Ministry of Health and the Royal Medical Services experienced more barriers than those working in teaching hospitals (P < 0.05). ConclusionsAlthough the current study indicated high knowledge and perceptions regarding pharmaceutical care among hospital pharmacists, the provision of pharmaceutical care is not widely practiced in Jordan. Moreover, several barriers to the practice of pharmaceutical care were identified, highlighting the need for effective strategies to be put in place to overcome these obstacles. These strategies should include increasing the number of pharmacy staff, resolving timing issues, providing adequate financial initiatives, improving communication skills, changing the layout of pharmacies to include a private counseling room, developing specific policies that support the role of the pharmacist in patient care, and providing effective training and continuing professional education programs.

Pharmaceutical care for visually impaired patients: a qualitative study of community pharmacists' needs and professional experience.

Visual impairment is a disability that can have a significant impact on the ability to take medication safely. As a result, pharmacists must adjust their practice toprovidetargeted and adapted support for this type of patient. The aims of the present study were (1) to illustrate the usual clinical practice of community pharmacists to support the optimisation of medication use in visually impaired patients, and (2) to identify solutions to improve pharmaceutical care for visually impaired patients. Semi-structured interviews with 18 French-speaking community pharmacists were conducted via videoconference in Belgium. Participants were recruited on a voluntary basis and through a snowball method. An interview guide was developed based on literature review. Interviews were carried out until theoretical saturation of the data, recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Data were organised by NVivo Software. Four themes were identified: community pharmacists' training, identification of visually impaired patients by the pharmacist, communication with visually impaired patients and their proxies, and provision of appropriate pharmaceutical care. Participants stated that they had not received any training regarding visual impairment. They described that they did not always know how to recognise visually impaired patients and that communication was often difficult. This qualitative study hashighlighted a lack of knowledge and skills among community pharmacists regarding visual impairment. One possible solution could be to develop recommendations and tools to improve the care of these patients.

Study of factors influencing the occurrence of conflicts in pharmacies

The aim of the study was to investigate the factors influencing the occurrence of conflicts in pharmacies during the provision of pharmaceutical care, with the subsequent goal of optimizing the social and psychological climate within the team and improving the quality of service to the population. Materials and methods. Systematic-analytical, mathematical statistical, comparative, and sociological research methods were employed in the study. Descriptive statistics were utilized to present the obtained data. To assess the significance of individual factors, the questionnaire results were converted into corresponding component weights (Wij). Results. The study of conflicts between visitors and pharmacy employees, from the point of view of visitors, revealed several key findings. Most customers expressed dissatisfaction with the prices of medicines and medical devices (Wij = 1.00). Additionally, there were concerns about the perceived quality of the products (Wi j= 0.67), and some customers reported feeling distressed due to the unavailability of necessary medicines (Wij = 0.57). The study, conducted from the point of view of employees, focused on conflicts between employees and visitors. The findings revealed that conflicts most often arise due to dissatisfaction with the prices of medicines and medical devices (Wij = 1.00). Additionally, issues such as requests to dispense over-the-counter medicines from the list of prescription drugs (Wij = 0.70) and returning medicines to the pharmacy after purchase (Wij = 0.67) were identified as contributing factors. The analysis of factors that provoke conflicts in the pharmacy team revealed several key contributors. The most significant include the inadequate behavior of employees (Wij = 1.00), inconsistency in words, assessments, and actions of some team members with the expectations and requirements of others (Wij = 0.89), and psychological incompatibility between employees (Wij = 0.88). The study of conflicts between the administration and subordinates in the pharmacy revealed frequent occurrences linked to several factors. Most notably, conflicts were associated with an imperfect bonus system (Wij = 1.00), high workload (Wij = 0.92), and a perceived lack of career development opportunities (Wij = 0.76). Conclusions. The factors that contribute to the emergence of conflict situations in pharmacies have been identified and studied. Approaches to preventing and resolving conflicts by pharmacy employees are proposed.

Impact of Resveratrol and Pharmaceutical Care on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Neuropathic Complication: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial

Background. Management of diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a challenging issue. Therefore, integration of pharmaceutical care provided by the clinical pharmacists with pharmacotherapy may provide multifaceted approach to target the management of hyperglycemia and diabetic neuropathic complication. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of resveratrol (Resv) and/or pharmaceutical care (PC) on glycemic control and amelioration of diabetes-associated neuropathic complications. Patients and Methods. A four-arm randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial assigned 120 patients from the Diabetes and Endocrinology Center in Sulaymaniyah City, Iraq. The patients were divided into four groups. The Resv group (n = 30) received 500 mg Resv capsules once daily. The Placebo group (n = 30) received placebo capsules. Resv + PC (n = 30) received Resv 500 mg capsules with PC. Placebo + PC (n = 30) received placebo capsule plus PC. The duration of the intervention was 90 days. Drug therapy problems (DTPs) have been utilized as an important domain in PC. Clinical signs, symptoms, and neuropathic abnormalities were assessed using the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI), Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questions, and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) of the lower-limb sensory and motor nerves. Results. 97 patients from all the groups completed the study. At baseline, 84% of the Resv, 87% of the Placebo, and 92% of each of Resv + PC and Placebo + PC groups, respectively, had at least one DTP. The provision of PC resulted in a dramatic reduction in the number of DTP. Resveratrol with PC significantly ameliorated hyperglycemic status, neuropathic signs, and symptoms, as evidenced by a decrease in MNSI and DN4 scores and improvement in electroneurographic parameters. Conclusion. These findings support the integration of the PC concept into a pharmacotherapy intervention; they also encourage supplementation of Resv with conventional diabetes therapy to emphasize on the importance of this herbal medicine with the provision of PC in the management of diabetes and its neuropathic complications. This trial is registered with NCT05172947.

Pharmaceutical Care in Mental Health: Pharmacists' Barriers, Collaborations, Attitudes, and Perceptions.

Pharmaceutical care is an essential component of mental healthcare. The study assessed pharmacists' collaborations, barriers, perceptions on therapeutic relationships and attitudes toward pharmaceutical care to persons with mental illness. A questionnaire-based descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 175 pharmacists in a Nigerian state via purposive sampling. Average mean score of >3 (±SD) was considered positive attitude toward pharmaceutical care, and positive for respondents' perception of pharmacists-patient relationship during consultations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 for descriptive statistics. A total of 140 (80.0%) respondents participated in the study. Access to patients' medical records 90 (64.3%) was the major barrier to the provision of pharmaceutical care to persons with mental illness. Almost half of the study participants 69 (49.3%) desired collaboration with only general practitioners and psychiatrists. Only 44 (31.4%) had full co-operation from their desired collaborators. Average score for respondents' attitude toward provision of pharmaceutical care to the patients, and perception of pharmacist-patient relationship were 4.5 (±0.7) and 3.8 (±0.9) respectively. Study participants' attitude toward pharmaceutical care, and perception on therapeutic relationship in persons with mental disorder were positive. Lack of access to patients' records mostly hindered provision of pharmaceutical care, and full collaboration with other mental health experts was mostly lacking. Appropriate policies are required to improve these vital components of mental healthcare for desired outcomes.

Prioritizing Quality over Quantity: Defining Optimal Pharmacist-to-Patient Ratios to Ensure Comprehensive Direct Patient Care in a Medical or Surgical Unit.

The expanding scope of practice of hospital pharmacists has contributed to improvements in patient care; however, workload remains a barrier to the provision of optimal pharmaceutical care. Established ratios to guide clinical pharmacy staffing on medical and surgical units are lacking in Canada. To determine the pharmacist-to-patient ratio that allows for provision of comprehensive pharmaceutical care to each patient on a medical or surgical unit and to determine which comprehensive care tasks can be delivered in settings where staffing is limited. A multiphase study was conducted in 6 hospitals. First, a modified Delphi study was conducted to define and prioritize the elements of comprehensive pharmaceutical care. Next, a work sampling study was conducted to establish the frequency of each task and the time required for completion. Finally, a workforce calculator was used to determine pharmacy staffing ratios. Ten pharmacists participated in the modified Delphi study, and 31 participated in the work sampling study. A total of 15 comprehensive care tasks were identified, 7 of which were categorized as tasks to prioritize in settings where staffing is limited. The optimal staffing ratios were 1 pharmacist to 13 patients in internal medicine teaching units, 1 pharmacist to 26 patients in hospitalist or internal medicine nonteaching units, and 1 pharmacist to 14 patients in surgical units. The optimal staffing ratios determined in this study should enable pharmacists to provide comprehensive care to each patient. Implementing these staffing ratios could increase the consistency of clinical pharmacy services, improve patient outcomes, and improve pharmacists' work satisfaction. Further research is required to validate these ratios in a variety of settings.

Pharmacy professionals' understanding, attitude and practice toward pharmaceutical care in Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

Although pharmaceutical care provision is the primary goal of the pharmacy profession, its actual implementation has been lacking in developing nations. Therefore, this study investigated pharmacy professional's understanding, attitudes, and practice toward pharmaceutical care. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 30 July 2022 to 30 August 2022, at all community and hospital pharmacies in Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia. Data were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. A logistic regression model with a p-value of 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval was applied to identify factors associated with understanding, attitude, and practice. The study had a 97.7% response rate. Of the 130 participants, 71 (54.6%) were females. Slightly more than half (56.2%) of the participants were aware of the aim (56.2%) of pharmaceutical care and responsibilities (56.9%) of pharmacy professionals in the pharmaceutical care process. However, most participants lack awareness of the similarities and differences between clinical pharmacy and pharmaceutical care. Concerning their attitude, most participants (66.9%) believed that pharmaceutical care provision should be the primary responsibility of pharmacy professionals, and it will benefit patients (61.6%) and the healthcare system (60.8%). Pharmacy professionals frequently evaluate their patients and identify health or drug therapy-related problems and potentially available therapeutic alternatives. However, they rarely engaged in any health screening activities or provided feedback to the doctor on the patient's progress. Training status, sex, and years of practice/understanding were significantly related to pharmacy professionals' level of understanding, attitudes, and practice toward pharmaceutical care, as both years of practice and understanding are related to practice. Our study revealed a deficit in pharmacy professionals' understanding, attitude, and practice toward pharmaceutical care in Motta town, Northwest Ethiopia. Policymakers, health authorities, and educational institutions should work together to develop strategies and instructional initiatives that optimize pharmaceutical care provision and thus achieve optimal patient outcomes and lower healthcare costs.

Emergency pharmacy workforce views and experience related to the provision of pharmaceutical care during mass gathering events: the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ experience.

This study aimed to explore emergency pharmacy workforce perspectives and experiences in providing pharmaceutical care during mass gathering events (i.e., FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™). A qualitative methodology was employed using focus groups discussions. Emergency pharmacists across Hamad Medical Corporation were invited to participate using a combination of purposive and snowball sampling. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and validated. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken to generate key themes and subthemes. Four focus groups were conducted which included 21 participants and generated five major themes. Whilst participants had mixed opinions in relation to their preparedness to practice during the World Cup, they perceived their experience as successful and smooth. The primary perceived facilitators were management support, mobile medical units, and high public health awareness. The main highlighted barriers were related to staff insufficiency, medications availability, and cultural and language challenges. Participants recommended pharmacist's role identification in mass gatherings, development of pharmacy action plan, and offering simulation training and pharmacy-specific training. Despite the perceived barriers, pharmacists reported positive views in relation to their experience in providing pharmaceutical care during mass gatherings. Future research should focus on the development of theory-driven action framework for pharmacy departments to adopt during mass gatherings.