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Santos YS, de Souza Ferreira D, de Oliveira Silva ABM, da Silva Nunes CF, de Souza Oliveira SA, da Silva DT. Global overview of pharmacist and community pharmacy actions to address COVID-19: A scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 10:100261. [PMID: 37096140 PMCID: PMC10091784 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pharmacists and community pharmacies play an important role in managing, identifying and preventing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. Objectives To characterize the global panorama of action by pharmacists and community pharmacies in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The scoping review was based on the search for scientific articles in the databases: PubMed; Scopus; ScienceDirect and Web of Science. The search was carried out on August 31, 2021. The selection process was divided into 3 phases: i) title analysis; ii) analysis of study abstracts; iii) analysis of the full texts of the studies selected in the previous step. Studies were independently selected by two investigators and discrepancies resolved by consensus during focus group discussions led by a third reviewer. Results The final search yielded 36 articles for the review. The main strategies for coping with COVID-19 were grouped into 4 categories defined by consensus between the authors: (1) services for providing care to the patient; (2) product management; (3) infection prevention and control practices in community pharmacy; (4) preparation, sources of information used and training offered/received. Through these, the aim was to involve technical managerial, technical assistance and pedagogical technical actions adopted, as well as structure and process indicators that allowed the continuity of the offer of services. Conclusion During the pandemic, pharmacists and community pharmacies have been providing essential health services to communities. The results of this review may help to identify the changes adopted to face the COVID-19 pandemic and may contribute to improving the quality of practices in these establishments during the pandemic and after it, in similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yane Silva Santos
- Member of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Denise de Souza Ferreira
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Any Beatriz Matos de Oliveira Silva
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Clara Freire da Silva Nunes
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Sueza Abadia de Souza Oliveira
- Master in Collective Health by Federal University of Goias. President of Brazilian Society of Pharmacists and Community Pharmacies, Brasília (DF), Brazil
| | - Daniel Tenório da Silva
- Coordinator of the Study Group on Geriatrics and Gerontology (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
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Community Pharmacists’ Perceptions of Their Role in Provision of Anemia Management in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia, and the Associated Barriers. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081452. [PMID: 36011109 PMCID: PMC9408312 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: As a result of the lack of research exploring community pharmacists’ perspectives on anemia care, this study examined the perceived practices and barriers to anemia management services in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to community pharmacists to validate pharmacist perceptions of their role in anemia care. Using an 11-item role test, pharmacists were asked about their perceptions of anemia management. Pharmacy anemia management barriers were explored using 20 items, and their perceptions of inter-professional contact were examined by two items. Data analyses were performed using SPSS version 22. Results: This research involved 324 community pharmacists, 62.3% of whom were males. There were significant differences between the location of pharmacy education and the perceived practice of anemia management. The most common barriers to anemia counseling were patients’ lack of knowledge about anemia, health beliefs, patients’ perceptions that their doctor takes care of them, and time constraints. The majority of respondents said they would like to have more contact with other healthcare professionals regarding the care of anemia patients. Conclusions: A positive perception of pharmacists’ role in anemia management is prevalent among Saudi pharmacists in the Jazan region. Anemia management is challenging due to time limitations and patient-related problems.
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Bajis D, Daifi M, Amin MEK. Pharmacy-related research for health in the Arab region: An analysis informed by WHO's global strategy on research for health. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 5:100099. [PMID: 35478511 PMCID: PMC9032015 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2012, WHO (the World Health Organisation) published a strategy on research for health based on the premise that policies and practices in support of health worldwide should be grounded in the best scientific knowledge derived from high-quality research. This strategy focuses attention on five interrelated goals: organisation, capacity, priorities, standards, and translation.1 Whilst knowledge production and publication in many Arab countries have been on the rise, the overall global share of the Arab region in health research publication is smaller than its global share of population or wealth.2 Inspired by the five WHO goals on research for health, this commentary shares factors and recommendations for consideration to enhance pharmacy-related research in the Arab region. These recommendations include establishing strategies for pharmacy-related research to address the context and local needs of the host country, creating intranational and intraregional collaborative research avenues, investing in research capacity, and fostering a culture of research in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Bajis
- International Pharmaceutical Federation, Andries Bickerweg 5, 2517 JP, The Hague, the Netherlands
- The University of Sydney, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Corresponding author at: International Pharmaceutical Federation, Andries Bickerweg 5, 2517 JP, The Hague, the Netherlands.
| | - Magda Daifi
- Mohamed Al Mana College for Medical Sciences, Pharmacy Department, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Ezzat Khamis Amin
- Beirut Arab University, Faculty of Pharmacy, P.O. Box: 11 5020, Beirut, Lebanon
- AlAlamein International University Faculty of Pharmacy, AlAlamein City Main Road, Matrouh, Egypt
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Glasdam S, Sandberg H, Stjernswärd S, Jacobsen FF, Grønning AH, Hybholt L. Nurses' use of social media during the COVID-19 pandemic-A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263502. [PMID: 35180264 PMCID: PMC8856556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses stand in an unknown situation while facing continuous news feeds. Social media is a ubiquitous tool to gain and share reliable knowledge and experiences regarding COVID-19. The article aims to explore how nurses use social media in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A scoping review inspired by Arksey and O'Mally was conducted by searches in Medline, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete and Web of Sciences. Empirical research studies investigating nurses' use of social media in relation to COVID-19 were included. Exclusion criteria were: Literature reviews, articles in languages other than English, articles about E-health, and articles investigating healthcare professionals without specification of nurses included. Articles, published in January-November 2020, were included and analysed through a thematic analysis. The PRISMA-ScR checklist was used. RESULTS Most of the eleven included studies were cross-sectional surveys, conducted in developing countries, and had neither social media nor nurses as their main focus of interest. Three themes were identified: 'Social media as a knowledge node', 'Social media functioned as profession-promoting channels' and 'Social media as a disciplinary tool'. Nurses used social media as channels to gain and share information about COVID-19, and to support each other by highlighting the need for training and changes in delivery of care and redeployment. Further, social media functioned as profession-promoting channels partly sharing heroic self-representations and acknowledgment of frontline persons in the pandemic, partly by displaying critical working conditions. Finally, nurses used social media to educate people to perform the 'right 'COVID-19' behaviours in society. CONCLUSION This review provided snapshots of nurses' uses of social media from various regions in the world, but revealed a need for studies from further countries and continents. The study calls for further multi-methodological and in depth qualitative research, including theoretically framed studies, with a specific focus on the uses of social media among nurses during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stinne Glasdam
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Helena Sandberg
- Media and Communication Studies, School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
- Department of Communication and Media, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Frode F. Jacobsen
- Centre for Care Research Western Norway, Western Norway University of Applied Services Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- VID Specialized University, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Anette H. Grønning
- Media Studies, Department for the Study of Culture, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Hybholt
- Centre for Relationships and De-escalation, Mental Health Services Region Zealand, Slagelse, Denmark
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Mukattash TL, Jarab AS, Al-Qerem W, Abu Farha RK, Itani R, Karout S, Mukattash IL. Coronavirus disease patients' views and experiences of pharmaceutical care services in Lebanon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2022; 30:82-85. [PMID: 34791258 PMCID: PMC8767875 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riab071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the experiences and views of domiciliary coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients towards pharmaceutical care services provided during their infection. METHODS This was a single-centred observational study conducted among home-treated COVID-19 patients (n = 500), who were tested positive for COVID-19 in a medical centre in Lebanon. KEY FINDINGS Out of the 500 home-treated COVID-19 patients invited to participate in the study, 279 patients completed the questionnaire. Although the participants had a good view of pharmacists caring for COVID-19 patients (mean view score: 17.79/25), their treatment experiences were unsatisfactory (mean experience score: 1.51/4). CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 patients reported minimal involvement of pharmacists in their treatment. Therefore, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare authorities should intervene in restructuring, guiding and reviewing unrealized new pharmaceutical services to COVID-19 outpatients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Anan S Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Walid Al-Qerem
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rana K Abu Farha
- Department of Therapeutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ibrahim L Mukattash
- Department of Marketing, Faculty of Business, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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Tekeba A, Ayele Y, Negash B, Gashaw T. Extent of and Factors Associated with Self-Medication among Clients Visiting Community Pharmacies in the Era of COVID-19: Does It Relieve the Possible Impact of the Pandemic on the Health-Care System? Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:4939-4951. [PMID: 34934370 PMCID: PMC8683580 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s338590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-medication is one aspect of self-care that has been shown to benefit primary health care. When done correctly, it provides significant benefits to customers, such as self-reliance and cost savings. Inappropriate methods, on the other hand, such as incorrect self-diagnosis and therapy selection, can be disastrous. The COVID-19 pandemic context may benefit the community in easing the burden on the health system. There have been no studies conducted on this possibility in the context of COVID-19 in a selected area, hence the purpose of this study was to determine the extent of and factors associated with self-medication among clients visiting community pharmacies in west Harerghe, Ethiopia from June 1 to 30, 2020. Methods This institution-based cross-sectional study used a systemic random sample of 416 community-pharmacy clients. To collect data, face-to-face interviews were conducted using pretested semistructured questionnaires modified from established techniques. EpiData 3.1 was used to enter data and SPSS 24 for analysis. To determine factors associated with self-medications, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. AORs with 95% CIs are used to report associations, and the level of significance was set at P<0.05. Results The proportion of people self-medicating was 73.6% (95% CI 69.2%–77.9%). Self-medications were significantly associated with age 18–24 years (AOR 9.28, 95% CI 3.56–24.21) and 25–34 years (AOR 3.54, 95% CI 1.35–9.27), Amhara ethnicity (AOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.01–2.94), current single status (AOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.15–0.51), government employment (AOR 0.31, 95% CI 0.12–0.82), and limited knowledge (AOR 2.31, 95% CI 1.40–3.79). Conclusion Three in four participants practiced self-medication in the era of COVID-19. Repetition was significantly associated with age, ethnicity, current marital status, type of occupation, and knowledge about self-medications. An alternative medical care–delivery system by all health-care providers and increasing community awareness should be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Tekeba
- Micheta Community Pharmacy, Daro Lebu Health Office, West Harerghe, Ethiopia
| | - Yohanes Ayele
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Belay Negash
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Gashaw
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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Kua KP, Lee SWH. The coping strategies of community pharmacists and pharmaceutical services provided during COVID-19 in Malaysia. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14992. [PMID: 34710264 PMCID: PMC8646361 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in profound health challenges across the globe. Pharmacists' readiness to cope with the pandemic is critical in supporting and sustaining the healthcare workforce to meet the challenges. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine community pharmacists' views on their work environment, policies and preparedness for safe retail patronage to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 and assess the variables influencing coping strategies during the pandemic. SETTING An online survey of pharmacists practising in community pharmacy setting in Malaysia. METHOD A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in Malaysia to evaluate coping strategies of community pharmacists and pharmaceutical services provided during COVID-19 pandemic. Between May 1 and July 31, 2020, the questionnaire was distributed to pharmacists working in community setting nationwide utilising a snowball sampling method. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Community pharmacists' perceptions on safety, resilience, organisational support, and pharmaceutical services offered during COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS A total of 217 pharmacists participated in the study. The vast majority of community pharmacists reported a positive outlook and were able to balance working with self-care during this period. Most reported to have access to personal protective equipment such as gloves and hand sanitisers. A large proportion of community pharmacies also installed physical barriers in doorways or in front of the counter, put markings on the ground to section areas to ensure physical distancing, and controlled the number of customers who could access the pharmacy during this period. Innovations reported to be implemented included teleconsultations and providing curb-side or drive-through delivery and pickup services. CONCLUSION The findings suggest the frontline and essential roles of community pharmacists in delivering pandemic responses, creating the opportunity to determine areas where community pharmacy services can be incorporated to strengthen the public health system and improve patient health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok Pim Kua
- Pharmacy UnitPuchong Health ClinicPetaling District Health OfficeMinistry of Health MalaysiaPuchongMalaysia
| | - Shaun Wen Huey Lee
- School of PharmacyMonash UniversitySubang JayaMalaysia
- Asian Centre for Evidence Synthesis in Population, Implementation, and Clinical Outcomes (PICO)Health and Well‐being ClusterGlobal Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) PlatformMonash UniversitySubang JayaMalaysia
- Gerontechnology LaboratoryGlobal Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) PlatformMonash UniversitySubang JayaMalaysia
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesTaylor's UniversitySubang JayaMalaysia
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Pharmacists' Perception of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19) in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111541. [PMID: 34770055 PMCID: PMC8582775 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyze the role of pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic, to measure pharmacists' attitude toward COVID-19 safety measures (wearing masks, wearing gloves, isolation shield, good hygiene, etc.), and explore their perspectives regarding a second wave of the virus. METHODS This cross-sectional online survey study was conducted in Jordan during the COVID-19 outbreak in July 2020 to discuss Jordanian pharmacists' awareness of safety at their workplace during the COVID-19 outbreak, their sources of information, and their predictions for COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS The participants (n = 311) were all pharmacists mostly aged between 23-30 years old (45%) and female (83%). The primary source of information about COVID-19 was social networking (38.9%). Pharmacists were committed to social distancing (86.5%) and wearing masks (76.2%). They expressed levels of agreement to their role in decreasing COVID-19 spread (94.2%) and correcting false information (94.5%); they expressed levels of expectation toward concern about a second COVID-19 wave (83%) that would be more severe than the previous one (43.4%). Pharmacists expected that an influenza vaccine might be helpful in decreasing severity and spread of the COVID-19 pandemic (56.9%). Pharmacists expected COVID-19 vaccine development within 6 months of administering our study survey (84.9%) and that vaccination might be effective in preventing COVID-19 (93%) infection. CONCLUSION Pharmacists expressed positive roles on COVID-19 spread through exemplary actions, self-commitment to protection measures, and public health awareness. Social media as a source of health information should be cautiously investigated, and pharmacists should always refer to evidence-based sources. The role of pharmacists is particularly important for the upcoming era of COVID-19 vaccination administration and awareness.
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Al-Shatnawi SF, Al-Hosban SY, Altawalbeh SM, Khasawneh RA. Antibiotic prescribing patterns for childhood infections in ambulatory settings in Jordan. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14740. [PMID: 34403534 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotics' rational prescribing is a major goal of the World Health Organization's (WHO) global action plan to tackle antimicrobial resistance. Evaluation of antibiotic prescribing patterns is necessary to guide simple, globally applicable stewardship interventions. The impact of antimicrobial resistance is devastating, especially in low-income countries. We aimed to introduce ambulatory data on patterns of paediatric antibiotic prescribing in Jordan, which could be used to guide local stewardship interventions. METHODS A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted by selecting a random sample of paediatric patients, who attended ambulatory settings in 2018. Records of outpatients (age ≤18 years) receiving at least one antibiotic were included. The WHO's model of drug utilisation was applied, and all prescribing indicators were included. Multiple linear regression was performed to examine factors influencing the ratio of prescribed antibiotics to overall medications per encounter. RESULTS A total of 20 494 prescriptions, containing 45 241 prescribed drugs, were obtained. The average number of prescribed drugs per prescription was (2.21 ± 0.98). Approximately 77.5% of overall ambulatory prescriptions accounted for antimicrobials. Only 0.6% of total prescriptions were for injectables. All antimicrobials (100%) were prescribed by generic names and from the essential drug list. Antibiotics were most commonly prescribed for respiratory tract infections. Age, gender, season and facility type were significant predictors of prescribed antibiotics to overall medications ratio. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study of antibiotic prescribing patterns among outpatient paediatrics that covers wide regions in Jordan. Results indicate high rates of antibiotics use among outpatient paediatrics. Such findings necessitate more focussed efforts and regulations that support rational utilisation of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah F Al-Shatnawi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sanabil Y Al-Hosban
- Department of Pharmacy, Mafraq Gynecology and Pediatric Hospital, Ministry of Health, AlMafraq, Jordan
| | - Shoroq M Altawalbeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rawand A Khasawneh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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YILMAZ ZK, ŞENCAN N. An Examination of the Factors Affecting Community Pharmacists' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Impressions About the COVID-19 Pandemic. Turk J Pharm Sci 2021; 18:530-540. [PMID: 34708643 PMCID: PMC8562124 DOI: 10.4274/tjps.galenos.2020.01212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)-related cases and deaths are ongoing throughout the world, but there is still no effective drug in its treatment, and the vaccine supply is not adequate for the global population. It is important that pharmacists have sufficient knowledge and awareness to prevent and control the disease. COVID-19 has been widely covered in the media, which has been a source widely used by healthcare professionals. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and impressions of community pharmacists about COVID-19 and the factors affecting them. Materials and Methods The questions in this survey were formed using the guideline created by the World Health Organization, a guide composed by the Turkish COVID-19 Scholarly Commission, and data disclosed to the public on the website of the Ministry of Health. The questionnaire was designed with Google forms and then applied to community pharmacists all over Turkey by sharing the survey link. Results Analyses of 393 questionnaires showed that Ministry of Health/government statements, the internet (scientific sources), and the media were the preferred sources of information (96.7%, 89.6%, and 84%, respectively). “Ways to avoid COVID-19” was the most searched title (96.9%). It was determined that the names of the two drugs most frequently mentioned by the participants to be used in the treatment of COVID-19 in Turkey were hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin (57.5%; 50.1%, respectively). Participants who received information from the media gave less education to patients/customers on personal protection measures against COVID-19 (83.3%) and symptoms of COVID-19 (78.8%); however, their behavior regarding the training of pharmacy personnel was found to be the opposite. It has been determined that about half of the participants (46.6%) mostly trust the Ministry of Health regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion Media and other sources influence the knowledge, behavior and impressions of pharmacists’. Having a high level of knowledge positively affects people’s behavior. It is important for pharmacists to have accurate information about COVID-19 and to transfer their knowledge to the community to provide patient education and to prevent/control the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekiye Kübra YILMAZ
- Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Nazlı ŞENCAN
- Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Management, İstanbul, Turkey
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Itani R, Khojah HMJ, Jaffal F, Rahme D, Karout L, Karout S. Provision of pharmaceutical care to suspected high-risk COVID-19 patients through telehealth: a nationwide simulated patient study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:997. [PMID: 34548092 PMCID: PMC8454989 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07014-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has overburdened the healthcare facilities, which demanded the use of alternative and effective methods for delivering healthcare services. The use of telehealth has become a necessity to provide initial health services. OBJECTIVE To identify the pharmaceutical care provided by community pharmacists to suspected high-risk COVID-19 patients using telehealth. METHODS A simulated patient (SP) phoned 100 randomly-selected community pharmacies throughout Lebanon using a standard scenario of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with typical symptoms of COVID-19. Pharmacists' responses were compared with pre-defined ideal recommendations using a special form. RESULTS The mean of the retrieved medical information score obtained by the pharmacists was 2.48 ± 2.79 (out of 21), with 34 % of the participants not retrieving any relevant medical data from the SP. The relative patient information, the exposure to COVID-19, and the possible COVID-19 symptoms were not retrieved by 61 %, 70 %, and 41 % of the pharmacists, respectively. Two percent of the pharmacists assured that the SP's symptoms were related to common cold, while 5 % confirmed that the SP is infected with COVID-19. Notably, 35 % of the pharmacists did not offer any recommendation. Among them, 14 % claimed that they were too busy to respond. Only 39 % of the pharmacists provided an appropriate recommendation by referring the SP to her physician to seek medical attention within 24 h since the SP is a high-risk patient, and 41 % recommended doing a PCR test. Antipyretics, antibiotics, and dietary supplements were recommended by 27 %, 7 %, and 16 % of the pharmacists, respectively. Less than 16 % of the pharmacists recommended using protective measures against COVID-19. In addition, the overall communication skills of the pharmacists were generally below expectations. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to assess the quality of pharmaceutical care provided by community pharmacists in the Middle East via Telehealth. An unsatisfactory level of preparedness through means of telehealth technology was evident. This resulted in the quality of pharmaceutical-care services provided to high-risk patients via telehealth to be below expectations. Therefore, health authorities should encourage community pharmacists to effectively adopt telehealth, by providing appropriate training, as well as recognizing their extra efforts with financial compensations, aiming to optimize patients' health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Riad El Solh, P.O. Box: 11- 5020, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani M J Khojah
- Department of Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, P.O. Box 30051, 41477, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatima Jaffal
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Riad El Solh, P.O. Box: 11- 5020, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Deema Rahme
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Riad El Solh, P.O. Box: 11- 5020, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lina Karout
- Department of Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El-Solh, P.O. Box: 11-0236, 1107 2020, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Riad El Solh, P.O. Box: 11- 5020, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Itani R, Karout S, Khojah HMJ, Jaffal F, Abbas F, Awad R, Karout L, Abu‐Farha RK, Kassab MB, Mukattash TL. Community pharmacists' preparedness and responses to COVID-19 pandemic: A multinational study. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14421. [PMID: 34053167 PMCID: PMC8236935 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists play a pivotal role in healthcare worldwide. Their role became more critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to investigate the community pharmacists' preparedness and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and how efficiently they were prepared to contain and prevent the spread of infection. METHODS An online questionnaire was distributed to community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Jordan through social media platforms. A scoring system was developed to measure their level of adherence to the preventive measures of the global infection. RESULTS The total included responses were 800. Around 44% of the pharmacists reported spending less than 15 min/d reading about COVID-19 updates. Although more than half of them were reviewing official sites, 73% of them were also retrieving information through non-official channels. Additionally, almost 35% of them were directly contacting customers without physical barriers, 81% reported encountering infected customers, and 12% wore the same facial masks for more than a day. Moreover, 58% of the pharmacies reported the absence of door signs requesting infected customers to declare the infection, 43% of the pharmacies were not limiting the number of simultaneous customers, and 70% were not measuring customers' temperatures prior to entry. Collectively, the mean total score of applied protective measures was 10.12 ± 2.77 (out of 17). CONCLUSION The level of preparedness of the community pharmacies in these three Middle Eastern countries was not adequate for facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Health authorities in these countries should closely monitor their adherence to the protective guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyBeirut Arab UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyBeirut Arab UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Hani M. J. Khojah
- Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy DepartmentCollege of PharmacyTaibah UniversityMadinahSaudi Arabia
| | - Fatima Jaffal
- Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyBeirut Arab UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Fatme Abbas
- Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyBeirut Arab UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Reem Awad
- Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyBeirut Arab UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Lina Karout
- Department of RadiologyAmerican University of Beirut Medical CenterBeirutLebanon
| | - Rana K. Abu‐Farha
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyApplied Science Private UniversityAmmanJordan
| | - Mohamad B. Kassab
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Tareq L. Mukattash
- Department of Clinical PharmacyFaculty of PharmacyJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
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Khojah HMJ, Itani R, Mukattash TL, Karout S, Jaffal F, Abu-Farha R. Exposure of community pharmacists to COVID-19: A multinational cross-sectional study. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2021; 16:920-928. [PMID: 34305508 PMCID: PMC8282887 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Community pharmacists (CPs) are among the frontline healthcare providers who have been exposed to a high risk of being infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic. Unfortunately, there have been limited studies in the Middle East that provide an occupational risk analysis among CPs. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the risk of COVID-19 exposure among Middle Eastern CPs and to identify the infection predictors. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online, self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to CPs across KSA, Lebanon, and Jordan between November and December 2020. The bivariate logistic regression test was used to analyse the predictors associated with COVID-19. Results CPs were more susceptible to acquiring SARS-CoV-2 than the general public (12.9% vs. 1.5%). The significant predictors of infection included a family member with confirmed COVID-19 infection, age <40 years, encountering patients in pharmacy without a protective glass-barrier, and contact with confirmed COVID-19 patients or colleagues with confirmed COVID-19 during practice. Additionally, the mean level of the respondents’ expected rate of infection was 3.27 ± 1.04 (out of 5). This level was significantly higher among female pharmacists and Lebanese pharmacists. Conclusions This study demonstrates that CPs are at a higher risk of acquiring COVID-19 compared with the general public. This is attributed to several occupational factors that increase the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Therefore, healthcare authorities are advised to enforce strict occupational guidelines for CPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani M J Khojah
- Department of Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Almadinah Almunawwarah, KSA
| | - Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fatima Jaffal
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rana Abu-Farha
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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14
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Participation in emergency preparedness and response: a national survey of pharmacists and pharmacist extenders. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 61:722-728.e1. [PMID: 34148842 PMCID: PMC8679573 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the critical role of pharmacists in pandemic response. To enhance pharmacist’s involvement in future emergency situations, there is a critical need to understand pharmacists’ knowledge, willingness and preparedness in response to various emergency situations. Objective This study aimed to describe pharmacists and pharmacist extenders on their participation in emergency response activities and training, preparedness and willingness to respond in emergency situations, and knowledge of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and their pharmacy’s emergency preparedness plans. Methods A cross-sectional design with an online survey of pharmacist, pharmacy owner, and pharmacy technician members of the National Community Pharmacists Association was employed in the United States in July – August 2020. Descriptive statistics summarized participants’ level of actual participation and their willingness to participate in emergency situations and training and their knowledge of MOU and their pharmacy’s emergency plans. A non-response bias investigation was conducted by comparing the early and late responders. Results Of the 6,486 members, 255 completed the questionnaire (RR1 = 4.0%). With the confidence level of 95%, the margin of error was 6%. About 60% were independently owned and in urban areas. More than 80% and 64% of the participants have not volunteered in any emergency or participated in any emergency training program, respectively. Over 60% were very willing to assist with the distribution of medications and vaccine administration. Less than 10% had MOUs with health departments. More than 60% of respondents were not aware of what MOU is. Conclusion Despite limited involvement in actual emergency activities and training, pharmacists and pharmacist extenders exhibited a high level of willingness to participate in emergency training and assist in case of emergencies. This study recommends the development of programs aimed at increasing pharmacists’ and pharmacist extenders’ participation in emergency training and in future public health emergencies.
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Watson KE, Schindel TJ, Barsoum ME, Kung JY. COVID the Catalyst for Evolving Professional Role Identity? A Scoping Review of Global Pharmacists' Roles and Services as a Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. PHARMACY 2021; 9:99. [PMID: 34064467 PMCID: PMC8162558 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9020099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic requires a range of healthcare services to meet the needs of society. The objective was to explore what is known about the roles and services performed by frontline pharmacists during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A scoping review was conducted of frontline pharmacists' roles and services during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A medical librarian conducted comprehensive searches in five bibliographic databases-MEDLINE (via Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection for articles published between December 2019 and December 2020. The initial search retrieved 3269 articles. After removing duplicates, 1196 articles titles and abstracts were screened, 281 full texts were reviewed for eligibility, and 63 articles were included. This scoping review presents a conceptual framework model of the different layers made visible by COVID-19 of pharmacist roles in public health, information, and medication management. It is theorized that there is an invisible layer of change representing evolving professional role identity that may influence permanent role change following the pandemic. Thus, the pharmacy profession needs to build upon the lessons and experiences of this global pandemic and not let the momentum of the visible and invisible changes go to waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn E. Watson
- EPICORE Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2V2, Canada
| | - Theresa J. Schindel
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada; (T.J.S.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Marina E. Barsoum
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada; (T.J.S.); (M.E.B.)
- Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, Oakville, ON L6M 0L8, Canada
| | - Janice Y. Kung
- John W. Scott Health Sciences Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada;
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Mukattash TL, Jarab AS, Abu Farha RK, Nusair MB, Al Muqatash S. Pharmacists' perspectives on providing the COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2021. [PMCID: PMC8083213 DOI: 10.1093/jphsr/rmab008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The objective of this study was to explore community pharmacists’ perspectives on administering COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies in Jordan. Methods Purposeful sampling was used to identify a list of 100 community pharmacies which were approached to participate in the study. Twenty-three interviews were needed to reach data saturation. In-depth interviews were conducted, recorded, transcribed and analysed using NVivo 11 software. Interviews followed a previously prepared and validated 12-item interview guide. The interview guide discussed pharmacists’ perspectives on providing the COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies. Key findings The three overarching themes which described the participating pharmacists’ views towards administrating the COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies were advantage, support and barriers. The reported advantages included expediting the COVID-19 vaccination process, convince people to take the vaccine, increased patient accessibility to vaccines and aiding the healthcare system in the vaccination process. Respondents indicated that they would be more willing to administer the COVID-19 vaccine if they received the needed support from the Ministry of Health and the Pharmacists Association. Furthermore, from the respondents’ perspectives, the main barriers to this practice were having no confidence in the vaccine, risk of adverse effects and lack of training and expertise. Conclusions Respondents reported a positive attitude towards administering the COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies. Respondents highlighted that they could help fighting the pandemic through administering the vaccine and expedite the vaccination process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Anan S Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rana K Abu Farha
- Department of Theraputics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private Pharmacy, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad B Nusair
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Saqer Al Muqatash
- Department of General Surgery, King Hussein Hospital, Royal Medical Services, Amman, Jordan
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Schück S, Foulquié P, Mebarki A, Faviez C, Khadhar M, Texier N, Katsahian S, Burgun A, Chen X. Concerns Discussed on Chinese and French Social Media During the COVID-19 Lockdown: Comparative Infodemiology Study Based on Topic Modeling. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e23593. [PMID: 33750736 PMCID: PMC8023382 DOI: 10.2196/23593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous countries, including China and France, have implemented lockdown measures that have been effective in controlling the epidemic. However, little is known about the impact of these measures on the population as expressed on social media from different cultural contexts. Objective This study aims to assess and compare the evolution of the topics discussed on Chinese and French social media during the COVID-19 lockdown. Methods We extracted posts containing COVID-19–related or lockdown-related keywords in the most commonly used microblogging social media platforms (ie, Weibo in China and Twitter in France) from 1 week before lockdown to the lifting of the lockdown. A topic model was applied independently for three periods (prelockdown, early lockdown, and mid to late lockdown) to assess the evolution of the topics discussed on Chinese and French social media. Results A total of 6395; 23,422; and 141,643 Chinese Weibo messages, and 34,327; 119,919; and 282,965 French tweets were extracted in the prelockdown, early lockdown, and mid to late lockdown periods, respectively, in China and France. Four categories of topics were discussed in a continuously evolving way in all three periods: epidemic news and everyday life, scientific information, public measures, and solidarity and encouragement. The most represented category over all periods in both countries was epidemic news and everyday life. Scientific information was far more discussed on Weibo than in French tweets. Misinformation circulated through social media in both countries; however, it was more concerned with the virus and epidemic in China, whereas it was more concerned with the lockdown measures in France. Regarding public measures, more criticisms were identified in French tweets than on Weibo. Advantages and data privacy concerns regarding tracing apps were also addressed in French tweets. All these differences were explained by the different uses of social media, the different timelines of the epidemic, and the different cultural contexts in these two countries. Conclusions This study is the first to compare the social media content in eastern and western countries during the unprecedented COVID-19 lockdown. Using general COVID-19–related social media data, our results describe common and different public reactions, behaviors, and concerns in China and France, even covering the topics identified in prior studies focusing on specific interests. We believe our study can help characterize country-specific public needs and appropriately address them during an outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carole Faviez
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Sandrine Katsahian
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Unité d'Épidémiologie et de Recherche Clinique, Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anita Burgun
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Département d'informatique médicale, Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Département d'informatique médicale, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Paris Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, Paris, France
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
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Mukattash TL, Jarab AS, Abu-Farha RK, Nusair M, Mukattash IL, Obaidat RM, Khdour M, Basheti I. Willingness and readiness to test for COVID-19; A qualitative exploration of community pharmacists. Int J Clin Pract 2020; 74:e13620. [PMID: 32734628 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to exploring community pharmacists' willingness and readiness to test for COVID-19 in Jordan. METHODS Purposeful sampling was used to identify a list of 30 community pharmacies, which were approached to participate in the study. Twenty interviews were needed to reach data saturation. In-depth interviews were conducted, recorded, transcribed, and analysed using NVivo 11 Software. Interviews followed a previously prepared and validated 10-item interview guide. The interview guide discussed pharmacists' willingness and readiness to test for COVID-19. RESULTS Twenty community pharmacists were interviewed for the purpose of the present study. Interviews took place during April 2020 and the mean interview duration was 23.30 minutes. Respondents had a mean age of 36.4 years and a mean experience of 8.8 years. The majority were female (70%) and 50% held a BSc in Pharmacy. Regarding respondents' willingness to test for COVID-19 emerging themes were helping other healthcare professional, willingness to contribute to official efforts in fighting COVID-19, acting as an accessible testing cite, willingness to carry out home testing. Regarding respondents' readiness to test for COVID-19 emerging themes were Pharmacists lack basic testing skills, pharmacies are not ready to preform tests and the need for training and certifying. CONCLUSION Jordanian pharmacists are willing to test patients for COVID-19 in community pharmacies, however, they thought they are not ready enough to undergo such tests and needed extra training and better safety precautions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Anan S Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rana K Abu-Farha
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Nusair
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ibrahim L Mukattash
- Department of Marketing, Faculty of Business, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rana M Obaidat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Maher Khdour
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Iman Basheti
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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