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Zheng Y, Tang PK, Hu H, Ung COL. Patterns of self-medication and intention to seek pharmacist guidance among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Macao: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2066. [PMID: 39085834 PMCID: PMC11293033 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19453-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Self-medication was remarkably popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. In older populations, the risk of self-medication is higher. Pharmacists are well positioned to provide public health education and disease prevention. This study aims to explore the self-medication patterns and intention to seek pharmacist guidance among older adults in Macao. METHODS A face-to-face cross-sectional survey was subsequently performed in March-April 2023 among older adults in Macao. The questionnaire was designed based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze predictors of self-medication behavior and multiple linear regression analysis to determine whether the TPB construct was the predictor of older adults' intention to seek guidance from pharmacists. RESULTS A total of 412 participants completed the questionnaire. The self-medication rate among older adults in Macao was 64.2%. The most commonly used types of medications were over-the-counter and traditional Chinese medicine, mainly from government anti-pandemic packages. The majority of individuals engaged in self-medication to treat COVID-19 symptoms or prevent COVID-19 infection. The prevalent reasons for self-medication were the perceived non-seriousness of the illness. 85 years old or older and university degree were significantly associated with self-medication behavior. Older adults had moderate intention to seek pharmacist guidance on medication use. The average scores (standard deviation) were 3.43 (1.10) for Attitude, 2.69 (0.99) for Subjective Norm, 3.56 (1.04) for Perceived Behavioral Control, and 3.07 (1.43) for Intention. Attitude, Subjective Norm, and Perceived Behavioral Control were all strong predictors of intention, which explained 53% of the variance in intention. In demographic factors, age was identified as a significant predictor of intentions. CONCLUSIONS Self-medication was widely practiced in Macao during the COVID-19 pandemic. To better control the risks associated with self-medication, the role of pharmacists is paramount. Enhancing the recognition and trust of pharmacists within society, modifying pharmacy management models, and strengthening pharmacists' self-perception of their profession are all pivotal directions areas to further enhance their role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Pou Kuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Regulatory Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Regulatory Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
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Gadgil R, Siracuse MV, Fuji KT, Bramble JD. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pharmacists practicing in community pharmacies in the state of Nebraska. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:102075. [PMID: 38522581 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.102075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid increase in COVID-19 combined with uncertainty surrounding transmission and treatment protocols resulted in unprecedented burnout amongst health care workers. As other health care workers scrambled to support patients, community pharmacists quickly responded to the pandemic by extending their services. This constantly changing environment amongst other factors created a high degree of psychological burden associated with COVID-19 for pharmacists. Although studies have examined the psychological impact of the pandemic on frontline health care workers, pharmacists are rarely included in these studies. OBJECTIVE To examine the impact of COVID-19 on work and personal well-being from the perspective of pharmacists practicing in community pharmacies in Nebraska. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey collected data from pharmacists with an active Nebraska Pharmacist license (N=2763) from November 2022 to January 2023. The survey was a hybrid of researcher-developed items and the validated abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory (aMBI). The aMBI is a 9-item Likert-scale scored instrument, which captures three domains of burnout: Personal Accomplishment; Emotional Exhaustion; and Depersonalization. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. RESULTS The response rate to the survey was 12.3% (n=339). Mean age of the respondents was 44.8 years with an average of 18.7 years in practice. Most respondents (n = 113, 50.7%) practiced in a community pharmacy followed by hospital (n = 72, 32.3%). 55.8% of community pharmacists reported that they considered leaving their current employer. Chi-square analysis confirmed that community pharmacists are more burned out than noncommunity pharmacists. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacists realized they had not been recognized for their contributions as frontline health care workers, which motivated them to consider leaving their employer and even the profession of pharmacy. This study found community pharmacists are burned out more than non-community pharmacists. Within community pharmacies, it was found that pharmacists practicing at corporate-owned community pharmacies had increased burnout compared to those practicing in independent community pharmacies.
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Carvalhal Moreira Dos Santos S, Santos Erbisti R, Calil-Elias S, Miranda ES. Profile, performance, and perception of pharmacist preparedness for the COVID-19 pandemic. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:451-456. [PMID: 38355311 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The lack of human resources for disease prevention and control is evident in times of health crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In public health emergencies, the capacity for adequate assistance and guaranteed access to pharmacological treatment are fundamental and contribute to impact reduction. We aimed to analyze the profile, performance, and characteristics related to the self-perception of preparedness among pharmacists who responded to the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted in two stages: content validation of a questionnaire and its application to a representative sample of pharmacists in Rio de Janeiro. The snowball technique was used to recruit participants. A logistic regression model was adjusted to determine the effects of the factors on the probability of a pharmacist feeling prepared to act during the pandemic. RESULTS Six experts approved and validated the questionnaire, and 376 pharmacists were included in the study, 60.6 % of whom were in places specially designated by health authorities to diagnose and treat COVID-19. Professionals participated in various activities related to pandemic demands, including medication management and population guidance. Postgraduate degrees increased the odds of participants feeling prepared to act during the pandemic. Furthermore, pharmacists who worked in reference facilities were more likely to feel ready than those who worked in other places. Professionals who knew treatment guidelines were almost three times more likely to feel prepared than the ones without the knowledge of treatment guidelines. Training or guidance on how to act during the pandemic increased pharmacists' odds of feeling prepared by 2.58 times. CONCLUSION Pharmacists actuated from diagnosis to treatment and participated in the health activities required during the pandemic. Factors contributing to the self-perception of preparedness were identified. Such factors can be targets for interventions to promote the preparedness of the workforce for future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Carvalhal Moreira Dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Administração e Gestão da Assistência Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael Santos Erbisti
- Departamento de Estatística, Instituto de Matemática e Estatística, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Calil-Elias
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Administração e Gestão da Assistência Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Departamento de Farmácia e Administração Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Elaine Silva Miranda
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Administração e Gestão da Assistência Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Departamento de Farmácia e Administração Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Al Meslamani AZ, Jarab AS. The economic impact of pharmacist intervention during pandemics. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2024; 24:323-326. [PMID: 37993404 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2023.2287487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Z Al Meslamani
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anan S Jarab
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Ng CB, Tan YL, Kamaludin RS, Chang CT, Chew CC, Foong WK, Lee SH, Hamdan N, Ong SY. Experience and attitudes of pharmacists towards challenges and adaptive measures to new norm in ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:85. [PMID: 37430298 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00579-4] [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: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges to the ward pharmacy practice. Challenges arose due to new norms in the ward pharmacy practice. Adaptive measures to overcome these challenges were important to sustain the quality of pharmaceutical care. This study aimed to identify the perceived challenges and attitudes towards adaptive measures in the ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic and determined their association with pharmacists' characteristics. METHOD This cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 Perak state hospitals and 12 primary health clinics through an online survey. All ward pharmacists and trainee pharmacists with at least 1 month of ward pharmacy experience and working in government-funded health facilities were included. The validated survey tool consisted of demographic characteristics, pharmacists' experience towards challenges (22 items), and their attitude towards adaptive measures (9 items). Each item was measured based on a 5-point Likert scale. One-way ANOVA and logistic regression were employed to determine the association of pharmacists' characteristics against their experience and attitude. RESULTS Out of 175 respondents, 144 (81.8%) were female, and 84 (47.7%) were Chinese. Most pharmacists served in the medical ward (124, 70.5%). Commonly reported perceived challenges were difficulties in counselling medication devices (3.63 ± 1.06), difficulties in clerking medication history from family members (3.63 ± 0.99), contacting family members (3.46 ± 0.90), patient's digital illiteracy in virtual counselling (3.43 ± 1.11) and completeness of the electronic records (3.36 ± 0.99). For attitude towards adaptive measures, improving internet connection (4.62 ± 0.58), ensuring availability of multilingual counselling videos (4.45 ± 0.64), and provision of internet-enabled mobile devices (4.39 ± 0.76) were the most agreeable by the pharmacists. Male (AOR: 2.63, CI 1.12-6.16, p = 0.026) and master's degree holders (AOR: 2.79, CI 0.95-8.25, p = 0.063) had greater odds of high perceived challenging experience scores. Master's degree holders (AOR: 8.56, CI 1.741-42.069, p = 0.008) were also more likely to have a positive attitude score towards adaptive measures. CONCLUSION Pharmacists faced multiple challenges in the ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in medication history assessment and patient counselling. Pharmacists, especially those with higher levels of education and longer tenure, exhibited a higher level of agreement towards the adaptive measures. The positive attitudes of pharmacists towards various adaptive measures, such as improvement of internet infrastructure and digital health literacy among patients and family members, warrant immediate action plans from health authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chew Beng Ng
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Taiping, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Taiping, Malaysia
| | - You Leng Tan
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Taiping, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Taiping, Malaysia
| | - Ros Sakinah Kamaludin
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia
| | - Chee Tao Chang
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia.
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia.
| | - Chii-Chii Chew
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia
| | - Wai Keng Foong
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Batu Gajah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Batu Gajah, Malaysia
| | - Siew Huang Lee
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Kuala Kangsar, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia
| | - Normi Hamdan
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Seri Manjung, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Seri Manjung, Malaysia
| | - Su Yin Ong
- Perak Pharmaceutical Services Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Tanjung Rambutan, Malaysia
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Zheng Y, Liu J, Tang PK, Hu H, Ung COL. A systematic review of self-medication practice during the COVID-19 pandemic: implications for pharmacy practice in supporting public health measures. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1184882. [PMID: 37397709 PMCID: PMC10310324 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1184882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Since the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication had become highly popular due to the risk of virus infection and overwhelming medical resources. Pharmacists are well-positioned to provide public health education and disease prevention. This study aims to provide an overview of the research about self-medication during COVID-19 and the role of pharmacists in ensuring the drug safety related to self-medication. Methods Databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, EBSCO host, and Web of Science) were searched for published studies on the practice of self-medication in COVID-19 pandemic without restriction in population and location. Primary search terms were "self-medication," "self-care," "self-management," "non-prescription drugs," "2019nCoV," and "COVID-19." Studies conducted during the pandemic but not exclusively for COVID-19 disease were eligible for inclusion. Results The database search yielded a total of 4,752 papers. After appropriate screening, 62 articles met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were cross-sectional in nature. The review highlighted a very high prevalence of self-medication during COVID-19, ranging from 7.14 to 88.3%. The purpose of self-medication was mainly to treat and prevent COVID-19; fever, body aches, cough, headache, and sore throat were the most frequently mentioned indications. Categories of drugs commonly used in self-medication included antibiotics, herbs, vitamins, and analgesics, most of which came from pharmacies. Information about self-medication usually obtained from relatives and friends, social networks and health care professionals. Common reasons for self-medication included saving money and time, prior experience and mild illness; reasons associated with COVID-19 were mainly fear of contracting the virus and poor access to doctors. Gender, age, education, marital status, and concern about COVID-19 were the most usual associated factors. The role of pharmacists in self-medication included sources of information, advice on medication use, and management of adverse reactions. Conclusion During the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication practices were widespread and varied across countries and populations. Self-medication has emerged as an important component of health care, but also as a huge global challenge. The engagement of healthcare administrators and policy makers are essential to regulate self-medication practices. The expertise and favorable conditions of pharmacists make them positioned as key roles in public health interventions for self-medication. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=395423, identifier CRD42023395423.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Jiayu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Pou Kuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
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Alsaidan AA, Alsaidan OA, Mallhi TH, Khan YH, Alzarea AI, Alanazi AS. Assessment of Adherence to Insulin Injections among Diabetic Patients on Basal-Bolus Regimen in Primary and Secondary Healthcare Centers in Al-Jouf Region of Saudi Arabia; A Descriptive Analysis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12103474. [PMID: 37240580 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12103474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient adherence to insulin therapy is one of the major challenges during the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Considering the dearth of investigations, this study aimed to determine the adherence pattern and factors linked with nonadherence among diabetic patients using insulin in Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS This cross-sectional study included diabetic patients using basal-bolus regimens, whether they had type 1 or type 2 diabetes. This study's objective was determined using a validated data collection form that included sections on demographics, reasons for missed insulin doses, list of barriers to therapy, difficulties during insulin administration, and factors that may improve insulin inaction adherence. RESULTS Of 415 diabetic patients, 169 (40.7%) were reported to forget doses of insulin every week. The majority of these patients (38.5%) forget one or two doses. Away from home (36,1%), inability to adhere to the diet (24.3%) and embarrassment to administer injections in public (23.7%) were frequently cited as reasons for missing insulin doses. The occurrence of hypoglycemia (31%), weight gain (26%), and needle phobia (22%) were frequently cited as obstacles to insulin injection use. Preparing injections (18.3%), using insulin at bedtime (18.3%), and storing insulin at a cold temperature (18.1%) were the most challenging aspects of insulin use for patients. Reduction in the number of injections (30.8%) and convenient timing for insulin administration (29.6%) were frequently cited as factors that may improve participant adherence. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that the majority of diabetic patients forget to inject insulin, primarily as a result of travel. By identifying potential obstacles faced by patients, these findings direct health authorities to design and implement initiatives to increase insulin adherence among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aseel Awad Alsaidan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Awad Alsaidan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
- Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Ibrahim Alzarea
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Salah Alanazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
- Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Al-Jouf Province, Saudi Arabia
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Alsulami FT, Sanchez J, Rabionet SE, Popovici I, Baraka MA. Predictor of HPV Vaccination Uptake among Foreign-Born College Students in the U.S.: An Exploration of the Role of Acculturation and the Health Belief Model. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:422. [PMID: 36851299 PMCID: PMC9959595 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to measure the HPV vaccination rate and knowledge about HPV and its vaccine among foreign-born college students; additionally, to measure the effect of acculturation and HBM constructs on the HPV vaccination behavior among foreign-born college students. METHODS a cross-sectional design with a non-probability sample of foreign-born college students was collected via a web-based self-administered survey that measured the HPV vaccination rate, assessed knowledge about HPV and its vaccine, and evaluated the effect of acculturation and HBM constructs on HPV vaccination behavior among foreign-born college students. RESULTS Foreign-born college students had moderate knowledge about HPV and the HPV vaccine, and about 63% were HPV-vaccinated. Perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, and cues to action were significantly associated with the HPV vaccination behavior, while knowledge levels about HPV and the HPV vaccine and acculturation levels were not significantly associated with the HPV vaccination behavior of foreign-born college students. CONCLUSIONS The current study shows a moderate vaccination rate and moderate knowledge about HPV and its vaccine among foreign-born college students. Additionally, vaccination campaigns need to increase awareness about the susceptibility to acquiring HPV and minimize the barriers to receiving the vaccine to increase the HPV vaccination rate among foreign-born college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad T. Alsulami
- Sociobehavioral and Administrative Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jesus Sanchez
- Sociobehavioral and Administrative Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Silvia E. Rabionet
- Sociobehavioral and Administrative Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Ioana Popovici
- Sociobehavioral and Administrative Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Mohamed A. Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain P.O. Box 64141, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
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Nassar RI, Thiab S, Basheti IA. The battle against COVID-19 in Jordan: A cross-sectional study assessing the experience of Jordanians who have been infected with COVID-19. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2023; 21:2791. [PMID: 37090460 PMCID: PMC10117353 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2023.1.2791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients infected with coronavirus have new experiences and hence needs from the healthcare sector. Pharmacists can play vital roles in adopting innovative strategies to meet such needs. Objectives To assess the experience of people who have been infected with coronavirus, and to assess the roles played by pharmacists to meet their new needs. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional online survey was developed based on previous literature, validated, and conducted in Jordan (3-13 May 2021). Results The mean age of the study participants (n=470) was 34.31 years (SD=11.75). About three-quarters were females. Out of the study participants, 24.0% reported to having been infected with the coronavirus previously, and 48.9% of them were infected after contacting an infected family member/friend. Only 36.0% ranked their commitment to the preventative measures as "very committed" before getting infected. The most reported symptom was fatigue (77.1%). The most used medicine/supplement was vitamin C (85.3%), followed by pain relievers (77.7%), and zinc tablets (75.3%). More than half of the participants (66.4%) documented that their anxiety and stress levels increased during their infection. More than half of the participants (53.7%) strongly agreed/agreed that pharmacists had an important and effective role during their infection. Conclusion The experience of individuals who contracted the coronavirus indicated that few were very committed to preventative measures before getting infected. Fatigue was the main experienced symptom, while vitamin C was the supplement used the most. About half of the participants believed that pharmacists have an important role in managing their needs during their COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razan I Nassar
- MSc. Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Samar Thiab
- PhD. Assistant Professor in Pharmaceutical Analysis, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Iman A Basheti
- PhD. Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan. Honorary professor, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Iqbal R, Khan S, Ali HM, Khan M, Wahab S, Khan T. Application of nanomaterials against SARS-CoV-2: An emphasis on their usefulness against emerging variants of concern. FRONTIERS IN NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fnano.2022.1060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Researchers are now looking to nanomaterials to fight serious infectious diseases that cause outbreaks and even pandemics. SARS-CoV-2 brought chaos to almost every walk of life in the past 2 years and has challenged every available treatment method. Although vaccines were developed in no time against it, the most pressing issue was the emergence of variants of concern arising because of the rapidly evolving viral strains. The higher pathogenicity and, in turn, the higher mortality rate of infections caused by these variants renders the existing vaccines less effective and the effort to produce further vaccines a costly endeavor. While several techniques, such as immunotherapy and repurposed pharmaceutical research, are being studied to minimize viral infection, the fundamentals of nanotechnology must also be considered to enhance the anti-SARS-CoV-2 efforts. For instance, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been applied against SARS-CoV-2 effectively. Similarly, nanomaterials have been tested in masks, gloves, and disinfectants to aid in controlling SARS-CoV-2. Nanotechnology has also contributed to diagnoses such as rapid and accurate detection and treatment such as the delivery of mRNA vaccines and other antiviral agents into the body. The development of polymeric nanoparticles has been dubbed a strategy of choice over traditional drugs because of their tunable release kinetics, specificity, and multimodal drug composition. Our article explores the potential of nanomaterials in managing the variants of concern. This will be achieved by highlighting the inherent ability of nanomaterials to act against the virus on fronts such as inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 entry, inhibition of RNA replication in SARS-CoV-2, and finally, inhibition of their release. In this review, a detailed discussion on the potential of nanomaterials in these areas will be tallied with their potential against the current and emerging future variants of concern.
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Barceló-Vidal J, Echeverría-Esnal D, Carballo N, De Antonio-Cuscó M, Fernández-Sala X, Navarrete-Rouco ME, Colominas-González E, Luque S, Fuster-Esteva M, Domingo L, Sala M, Duran X, Grau S, Ferrández O. Drug-related problems in patients admitted for SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:993158. [PMID: 36506516 PMCID: PMC9730804 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.993158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Drug-related problems (DRP) are events or circumstances in which drug therapy does or could interfere with desired health outcomes. In December 2019, a new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, appeared. Little knowledge about this type of infection resulted in the administration of various drugs with limited use in other pathologies. Evidence about DRP in patients with COVID-19 is lacking. Objective: The aim of the present study is to describe identified cases of DRP and those drugs involved in the first wave of patients with COVID-19, and evaluate associated risk factors. Material and methods: Observational, retrospective study performed in a tertiary university hospital between 14th March 2020 and 31 May 2020 (corresponding to the first COVID-19 wave). We recruited patients admitted during the study period. Exclusion criteria included age < 18 years; admission to critically ill units; and care received either in the emergency room, at-home hospitalization or a healthcare center. Results: A total of 817 patients were included. The mean age was 62.5 years (SD 16.4) (range 18-97), and 453 (55.4%) were male. A total of 516 DRP were detected. Among the patients, 271 (33.2%) presented at least one DRP. The mean DRP per patient with an identified case was 1.9. The prevailing DRPs among those observed were: incorrect dosage (over or underdosage) in 145 patients (28.2%); wrong drug combination in 131 (25.5%); prescriptions not in adherence to the then COVID-19 treatment protocol in 73 (14.1%); prescription errors due to the wrong use of the computerized physician order entry in 47 (9.2%); and incorrect dosage due to renal function in 36 (7%). The logistic regression analysis showed that patients who received only prescriptions of antibacterials for systemic use (J01 ATC group) faced a higher likelihood of experiencing a DRP (OR 2.408 (1.071-5.411), p = 0.033). Conclusion: We identified several factors associated with an increased risk of DRPs, similar to those reported in other pre-pandemic studies, including a prolonged length of stay, higher number of prescribed drugs and antimicrobial administration. The relevance of pharmacists and tools like pharmacy warning systems can help prevent, identify and resolve DRP efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Barceló-Vidal
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,*Correspondence: J. Barceló-Vidal,
| | - D. Echeverría-Esnal
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - N. Carballo
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - X. Fernández-Sala
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - S. Luque
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Fuster-Esteva
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L. Domingo
- Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Department of Epidemiology and Evaluation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Sala
- Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Department of Epidemiology and Evaluation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X. Duran
- Statistics Deparment, Institut Hospital del Mar D'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - S. Grau
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - O. Ferrández
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Muhammad K, Saqlain M, Muhammad G, Hamdard A, Naveed M, Butt MH, Khan S, Ismael NS, Khan Z, Karatas Y. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAPs) of Community Pharmacists Regarding COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Survey in 2 Provinces of Pakistan. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2022; 16:1864-1872. [PMID: 33588970 PMCID: PMC8129683 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2021.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a global pandemic with no therapy, and pharmacists being a part of the health care system have a vital role in the management of COVID-19. The purpose of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of community pharmacists (CPs) regarding COVID-19. METHOD An online survey was conducted among 393 CPs in 2 provinces of Pakistan during the lockdown period. A validated questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha, 0.745) was used for data collection. All statistical analyses were analyzed by using SPSS, version 21 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). RESULTS Among 393 participants, 71.5% (n = 281) had good knowledge, 44% (n = 175) had a positive attitude, and 57.3% (n = 225) had good practices regarding COVID-19. Social media (45.29%, n = 178) were reported as the main source to seek information of COVID-19. Good knowledge, age ≥ 26 years, and a PhD degree level were the substantial determinants (P = < 0.05) of a good attitude. Similarly, a CP with experience of > 5 years, a PhD degree, good knowledge, and a good attitude has higher odds of having good practices as compared with reference categories (P = < 0.05). CONCLUSION In short, a majority of the CPs had good knowledge but had a poor attitude and practice toward the management of COVID-19. Standard-structured educational and counseling programs for CPs regarding COVID-19 are needed for effective management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khayal Muhammad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, Nicosia, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Muhammad Saqlain
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Gul Muhammad
- Department of Medicine, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Ataullah Hamdard
- Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Department of Statistics, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Siraj Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Najlaa Saadi Ismael
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Zakir Khan
- Çukurova Üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Farmakoloji Anabilim Dalı, Sarıçam, Adana, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Karatas
- Çukurova Üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Farmakoloji Anabilim Dalı, Sarıçam, Adana, Turkey
- Balcalı Hospital, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
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13
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Gill M, Datta D, Gregory P, Austin Z. COVID-19 vaccination in high-risk communities: Case study of Brampton, Ontario. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2022; 155:345-351. [DOI: 10.1177/17151635221123042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: The Peel region in Southern Ontario is among the most ethnoculturally diverse and fastest growing areas in Canada. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the multicultural community of Brampton suffered one of the highest infection rates in Canada, in part because of the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the community. The role of pharmacists in supporting vaccine uptake in this linguistically, ethnically and religiously diverse community has not been adequately characterized. Methods: A qualitative case study approach was used, focusing on one of the major communities in Peel (Brampton). Interviews with community pharmacists and pharmacy staff directly involved in COVID-19 vaccine administration during the pandemic were undertaken to identify common experiences and trends related to providing care and support to this high-risk community. Constant comparative coding was used to identify common themes that can inform ongoing public health supports in future pandemics. Results: A total of 29 interviews were completed. Key themes that emerged included 1) the impact of operational, organizational and logistical issues on vaccine uptake in the community; 2) the negative influence of inconsistent messaging from public health and other experts during the pandemic; and 3) the identification of an emerging typology of “vaccine hesitancies” describing different reasons/motivations for avoiding COVID-19 vaccination and approaches taken by pharmacy staff to address these within a multicultural, multilingual practice context. Discussion: The COVID-19 vaccination campaign was unprecedented in its size, scope and speed, and community pharmacists were integral in this effort. The unique needs of ethnoculturally, linguistically and socioeconomically diverse communities like Brampton require further studies to examine ways in which the pharmacy profession can positively influence greater vaccine uptake, by increasing understanding of the diverse proliferation of vaccine hesitancies that emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zubin Austin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and the Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
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14
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Horgan D, Spanic T, Apostolidis K, Curigliano G, Chorostowska-Wynimko J, Dauben HP, Lal JA, Dziadziuszko R, Mayer-Nicolai C, Kozaric M, Jönsson B, Gutierrez-Ibarluzea I, Fandel MH, Lopert R. Towards Better Pharmaceutical Provision in Europe-Who Decides the Future? Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:1594. [PMID: 36011250 PMCID: PMC9408332 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been achieved in human health in the European Union in recent years. New medicines, vaccines, and treatments have been developed to tackle some of the leading causes of disease and life-threatening illnesses. It is clear that investment in research and development (R&D) for innovative medicines and treatments is essential for making progress in preventing and treating diseases. Ahead of the legislative process, which should begin by the end of 2022, discussions focus on how Europe can best promote the huge potential benefits of new science and technology within the regulatory framework. The challenges in European healthcare were spelled out by the panellists at the roundtable organised by European Alliance for Personalised Medicine (EAPM). Outcomes from panellists' discussions have been summarized and re-arranged in this paper under five headings: innovation, unmet medical need, access, security of supply, adapting to progress, and efficiency. Some of the conclusions that emerged from the panel are a call for a better overall holistic vision of the future of pharmaceuticals and health in Europe and a collaborative effort among all stakeholders, seeing the delivery of medicines as part of a broader picture of healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Horgan
- European Alliance for Personalised Medicine, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India
| | - Tanja Spanic
- Europa Donna, The European Breast Cancer Coalition, 20149 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Chorostowska-Wynimko
- Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 26 Plocka Str., 01-138 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Jonathan A. Lal
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India
- Institute for Public Health Genomics, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rafal Dziadziuszko
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy of the Medical University of Gdansk, 80-214 Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Marta Kozaric
- European Alliance for Personalised Medicine, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bengt Jönsson
- Department of Economics, Stockholm School of Economics (SSE), P.O. Box 6501, 113 83 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iñaki Gutierrez-Ibarluzea
- Department of Knowledge Management and Evaluation of the Basque Foundation for Health Innovation and Research (BIOEF), 48902 Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Ruth Lopert
- Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development, OECD, 75775 Paris, France
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15
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Survey of Pharmacists' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) concerning COVID-19 Infection Control after Being Involved in Vaccine Preparation: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159035. [PMID: 35897405 PMCID: PMC9331880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination is crucial for preventing the spread of COVID-19. Vaccination for COVID-19 was implemented in Japan in community units, and community pharmacists were engaged in vaccine preparation. Capturing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pharmacists regarding COVID-19 infection control is important for developing future community health action strategies and plans. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 141 pharmacists who were members of a pharmacist association in the Shinagawa Ward of Tokyo (1–31 July 2021) using a Google online questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic information and KAP questions regarding COVID-19. A correlation test was used for analyzing KAP scores. Significant correlations were found among all KAP scores. Stepwise logistic regression analysis showed “age” as a significant knowledge factor and “marriage”, “pharmacist careers”, “information source: official government website”, and “information source: word of mouth from family and friends” as significant attitude factors. Good KAP scores were recorded in this study, indicating increased comprehension of infection control measures and increased knowledge scores, as pharmacy pharmacists were practically involved in COVID-19 infection control measures through vaccine preparation. Policymakers should understand the value of pharmacists as healthcare professionals and should enhance public health through the effective use of pharmacists.
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16
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Xin TY, Rajiah K, Maharajan MK. Emergency Preparedness for the COVID-19 Pandemic: Social Determinants Predicting the Community Pharmacists’ Preparedness and Perceived Response in Malaysia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148762. [PMID: 35886614 PMCID: PMC9315557 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: Pandemic preparedness of healthcare providers helps to mitigate future threats such as spread and fatality rates, as well as the management of the disease. Pharmacists are key partners with public health agencies, and the role of community pharmacists is becoming increasingly recognised in this COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to explore the emergency preparedness of community pharmacists (CPs) for COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed among community pharmacists using cluster sampling followed by convenient sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was formulated using references from the previous literature and the WHO preparedness checklist. Descriptive analysis was undertaken for the participants’ socio-demographic characteristics. All the data collected were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 24 (SPSS V.24), (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.) for analysis. Results: Most of the CPs had five or fewer years of practice experience, and they had all the mandatory information relating to the needs of their communities regarding the disease. The participants knew where to acquire these resources whenever needed. They were able to recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease. Most participants felt that they were confident to provide patient education and carry out their duties during these challenging times. There was a strong position correlation between preparedness and the perceived response of the participants. Conclusion: The community pharmacists in Malaysia are prepared enough for COVID-19 pandemic management and perceive that they can respond during any unprecedented situations, such as COVID-19. Community pharmacists were aware of the challenges that they need to face in their community regarding COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tan Yu Xin
- Master in Pharmacy Practice, School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia;
| | - Kingston Rajiah
- GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM Deemed University, Hyderabad 502329, India
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (M.K.M.)
| | - Mari Kannan Maharajan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Selangor 43500, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (M.K.M.)
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17
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Wibowo YI, Irawati S, Setiawan E, Halim SV, Sunderland B, Setiadi AP. Potential roles of community-based pharmacists in assisting home-quarantined patients with COVID-19 in a resource-challenged setting. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2022; 30:571-575. [PMID: 35849336 PMCID: PMC9384493 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riac053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To present the experiences of community-based drug information centre (DIC) pharmacists assisting home-quarantined patients with COVID-19 in Indonesia. METHODS A prospective case study included home-quarantined patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 contacting pharmacists at a DIC in Indonesia in July 2021. Patient characteristics, pharmacist interventions and outcomes were reported. KEY FINDINGS Fifteen home-quarantined patients were screened for COVID-19 and were provided with follow-up services (i.e. medication review and monitoring). Worsening symptoms and/or reduction in oxygen saturation were reported in seven patients where a referral to medical services was made for them. Most patients recovered at follow-up (4-14 days). CONCLUSIONS Community-based DIC pharmacists potentially contributed to the frontline emergency response, as observed during the COVID-19 crisis in Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosi Irawati Wibowo
- Correspondence: Yosi Irawati Wibowo, Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Building FF 5th floor, Universitas Surabaya, Jl. Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya 60293, Jawa Timur, Indonesia. Tel: +62-31-2981170;
| | - Sylvi Irawati
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care (CMIPC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Eko Setiawan
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care (CMIPC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Steven Victoria Halim
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care (CMIPC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Bruce Sunderland
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Adji Prayitno Setiadi
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care (CMIPC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
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18
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Wulandari LPL, Khan M, Probandari A, Batura N, Ferdiana A, Mashuri YA, Wibawa T, Daraninggar D, Dewi BK, Day R, Jan S, Schierhout G, Yeung S, Wiseman V, Liverani M. "We face the same risk as the other health workers": Perceptions and experiences of community pharmacists in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000606. [PMID: 36962398 PMCID: PMC10021738 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In many countries, community pharmacies have played an important role during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential medicines and personal protective equipment (PPE), disseminating information on disease prevention and management, and referring clients to health facilities. In recognition of this, there are increasing calls for an improved understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by these providers during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a view to providing them with better support and guidance now and during future emergencies. Between January and February 2021 we conducted 21 qualitative interviews to explore the experiences, safety concerns, and attitudes of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians during the COVID-19 crisis in Indonesia, a country that has recorded more than four million cases since the start of the pandemic. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic content analysis. Findings indicate that COVID-19 has had a significant impact on pharmacy practices in Indonesia. Most participants implemented preventive measures and adapted their business models to the changing circumstances. The shift to remote sales and home delivery allowed many pharmacies to maintain, and even increase their profit margins due to greater demand for medicines and PPE. However, many participants were concerned about the increased risk of infection due to limited social distancing and prolonged interactions with clients, many of whom displayed COVID-19 symptoms. Importantly, there was a general perception that the government did not sufficiently recognize these risks. In conclusion, the government should consider developing additional operational guidelines and regulatory frameworks to improve the safety, operation, and involvement of community pharmacies in the current pandemic response efforts and any future public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luh Putu Lila Wulandari
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Udayana, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Mishal Khan
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Departments of Community Health Sciences & Pathology, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- Global Health Programme, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ari Probandari
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Neha Batura
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Astri Ferdiana
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Mataram, Mataram, Indonesia
| | - Yusuf Ari Mashuri
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tri Wibawa
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dea Daraninggar
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Berlian Kusuma Dewi
- Center for Tropical Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ric Day
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Shunmay Yeung
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Virginia Wiseman
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Liverani
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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19
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Griswold AR, Klein J, Dusaj N, Zhu J, Keeler A, Abramson EL, Gurvitch D. Students as Community Vaccinators: Implementation of A Service-Learning COVID-19 Vaccination Program. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1058. [PMID: 35891222 PMCID: PMC9324302 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused major educational disruptions, it has also catalyzed innovation in service-learning as a real-time response to pandemic-related problems. The limited number of qualified providers was primed to restrict SARS-CoV-2 vaccination efforts. Thus, New York State temporarily allowed healthcare professional trainees to vaccinate, enabling medical students to support an overwhelmed healthcare system and contribute to the public health crisis. Here, we describe a service-learning vaccination program directed towards underserved communities. A faculty-led curriculum prepared medical students to communicate with patients about COVID-19 vaccines and to administer intramuscular injections. Qualified students were deployed to public vaccination clinics located in under-served neighborhoods in collaboration with an established community partner. Throughout the program, 128 students worked at 103 local events, helping to administer 26,889 vaccine doses. Analysis of a retrospective survey administered to participants revealed the program taught fundamental clinical skills and was a transformative service-learning experience. As new virus variants emerge and nations battle recurrent waves of infection, the need for effective vaccination plans continues to grow. The program described here offers a novel framework that academic medical centers could adapt to increase vaccine access in their local community and provide students with a uniquely meaningful educational experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Griswold
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.R.G.); (N.D.)
| | - Julia Klein
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Neville Dusaj
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA; (A.R.G.); (N.D.)
| | - Jeff Zhu
- Clinical & Translational Science Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Allegra Keeler
- Clinical & Translational Science Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; (J.Z.); (A.K.)
| | - Erika L. Abramson
- Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Dana Gurvitch
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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20
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Ahmer Raza M, Aziz S, Noreen M, Anjum I, Raza SM. A Portrait of the Pharmacy Profession Globally: Pharmacist Universal Professional Identity and Establishment of Global Pharmacy Council. Innov Pharm 2022; 13:10.24926/iip.v13i1.4502. [PMID: 36304691 PMCID: PMC9598977 DOI: 10.24926/iip.v13i1.4502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
⮚ Professional identity is an important component of practice change.⮚ Research on professional identity in pharmacy is limited, and this needs to change if we are to truly move practice in the 21st century.⮚ A unified professional identity is crucial for society to see pharmacists as healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ahmer Raza
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, The University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Shireen Aziz
- School of Pharmacy, Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Misbah Noreen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Irfan Anjum
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Shahid Masood Raza
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, The University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
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21
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Chapuis C, Collomp R, Albaladejo L, Terrisse H, Honoré S, Bosson JL, Bedouch P, Albaladejo P. Redistribution of critical drugs in shortage during the first wave of COVID-19 in France: from operating theaters to intensive care units. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:28. [PMID: 35365212 PMCID: PMC8972643 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00425-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tension in the supply of highly consumed drugs for patients with COVID-19 (propofol, midazolam, curares) led the French government to set up a centralized supply of hospitals with distribution based on the number of resuscitation beds in March 2020. The French Societies of Clinical Pharmacy and of Anesthesia and Critical Care aimed to evaluate the changes in total needs and the distribution between anesthesia and critical care activities (CCU), to prepare resumed surgical activity. Methods National declarative survey among pharmacists, via an online form (SurveyMonkey®), was conducted in April and May 2020. The analysis focused on quantities dispensed during the whole year 2019, and March and April of year 2019 and 2020 for the drugs subject to quota, and on their distribution in CCU and operating theaters. Results For the 358 establishments (47% public, 53% private), dispensations in CCU in March 2020 compared to March 2019 increased, respectively: propofol (+81%), midazolam (+125%), cisatracurium (+311%), atracurium (+138%), rocuronium (+119%); and decreased for anaesthesia: propofol (−27%), midazolam (-10%), cisatracurium (−19%), atracurium (−27%), rocuronium (+16%). Conclusions Variation of dispensations between CCU and others was directly related to the increase of COVID patients in CCU and the decrease in surgical activity. Each establishment could receive up to five or six different presentations and concentrations, leading to a major risk of medication error. This collaborative national survey provided accurate data on the drugs’ usual consumption. This work emphasized the need for a strong collaboration between pharmacists and anesthesiologists and intensive care physicians. It was further used by the Health Ministry to adjust the drug distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Chapuis
- Pôle Pharmacie, Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, CHU Grenoble Alpes, CS10217, 380143, Grenoble cedex 9, France.
| | - Rémy Collomp
- Pôle Pharmacie Stérilisation, CHU De Nice, Société Française de Pharmacie Clinique (SFPC), Nice, France
| | - Laura Albaladejo
- Equipe Themas, Timc-Imag Umr5525, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Hugo Terrisse
- Equipe Themas, Timc-Imag Umr5525, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Stéphane Honoré
- Pôle Pharmacie, Hôpital De La Timone, Société Française de Pharmacie Clinique (SFPC), Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Luc Bosson
- Equipe Themas, Timc-Imag Umr5525, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Pôle Santé Publique, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierrick Bedouch
- Equipe Themas, Timc-Imag Umr5525, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Pôle Pharmacie, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Société Française de Pharmacie Clinique (SFPC), Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre Albaladejo
- Equipe Themas, Timc-Imag Umr5525, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Société Française d'Anesthésie Réanimation (SFAR), Grenoble, France
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22
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Wang M, Yin Z, Zhang W, Jia X, Du S, Li J, Zhang X. Exploring the Pharmaceutical Care of Pharmacists in China During COVID-19—A National Multicenter Qualitative Study. Front Public Health 2022; 9:797070. [PMID: 35155350 PMCID: PMC8829323 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.797070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists are one of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) treatment team members in China, yet only a few single-center studies have described the work experience of pharmacists during the pandemic. Purpose This study aimed to explore in-depth experiences of hospital pharmacists providing pharmacy services during the COVID-19 pandemic in China on a national scale. Methods This is a nationwide multicenter qualitative study that used the purposive sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 pharmacists from large-scale tertiary hospitals in representative provinces of mainland China. The Colaizzi seven-step method was applied to analyze the interview data. Results Eleven semi-structured interviews were conducted. Each interview lasted 25–70 min. By analyzing the work experiences of pharmacists in COVID-19 designated treatment hospitals, five descriptive themes were categorized: (1) drug supply service; (2) routine clinical pharmacy services; (3) expanded pharmacy services during the epidemic; (4) drug management loopholes; (5) areas of improvements of pharmacy services during a pandemic. Conclusion During the COVID-19 epidemic, Chinese hospital pharmacists played various vital roles. However, there were loopholes in managing narcotic drugs, psychotropic drugs, and donated drugs. The study uncovered areas of improvement in pharmacy services during the pandemic. The emergency response capacity of hospital pharmacists should be continuously improved in the future.
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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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24
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Telepharmacy during COVID-19: A Scoping Review. PHARMACY 2021; 9:pharmacy9040183. [PMID: 34842823 PMCID: PMC8628897 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9040183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this scoping review is to summarize the implementation of telepharmacy during the surge of COVID-19. This review will focus on answering four questions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, (1) what were the various telepharmacy initiatives implemented? (2) what were the challenges faced when implementing telehealth initiatives? (3) what were the strategies used by pharmacies to overcome the challenges, and (4) what were some of the innovative methods used by pharmacies to implement telepharmacy? A literature search was conducted to include publications post-March 2020 about telepharmacy implementation via PubMed Central database and Google searches. All articles were examined for inclusion or exclusion based on pre-determined criteria. A total of 33 articles were reviewed. The most commonly observed telepharmacy initiatives were virtual consultations, home delivery of medicines and patient education. Limited access to technology and lack of digital access and literacy were major barriers in the implementation of telepharmacy. New protocols were developed by healthcare systems and regulations were relaxed by countries to accommodate telepharmacy. Pharmacies that successfully implemented telepharmacy overcame these challenges through patient and pharmacist education. The review also revealed the steps that can be taken by pharmacy organizations, payers and entrepreneurs in leveraging the convenience of telepharmacy.
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25
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Ghibu S, Juncan AM, Rus LL, Frum A, Dobrea CM, Chiş AA, Gligor FG, Morgovan C. The Particularities of Pharmaceutical Care in Improving Public Health Service during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9776. [PMID: 34574698 PMCID: PMC8468206 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, humanity is confronted with one of the most difficult challenges. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified for the first time in Hubei, China in December 2019 and produced the COVID-19 pandemic, a devastating disease that led to many complications and deaths. The authorities and the global healthcare system have been alerted regarding the prevention and treatment of this pathology. Even though worldwide quarantine was declared, health care professionals, including pharmacists, have been at the frontline in this war. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the authorities relied on the involvement of the community, hospital, or clinical pharmacists in offering support to the entire population. Also, the authorities implemented measures for emergency authorization of the vaccines, or the drugs used in COVID-19 treatment. In order to facilitate the population's access to healthcare services, the authorities have established regulations regarding, the extension of prescriptions by pharmacists, working hours, prevention of shortages and price-increase, drive-thru services, etc. However, several countries have taken financial measures to support the pharmacies' activity. At the same time, pharmaceutical associations elaborated guidelines for the protection of pharmacists and patients alike. Additionally, the pharmacies have come to support the health system and patients by adapting pharmaceutical care to the new needs like preparation and supply of disinfectants, patient care, information, and counseling, especially to COVID-19 patients, as well as the implementation of home drugs-delivery systems. The important roles played by pharmacists were to perform COVID-19 tests and further vaccines, as well as to combat the abundance of misinformation and fake news. The clinical and hospital pharmacy services have also been adapted. Strengthening the role of the pharmacist in the medical team was important for the purpose of providing correct and complete information regarding drugs used in the COVID-19 pathology. In all these activities, pharmacists needed creativity and professionalism, but also the support of pharmacy owners and managers. With this crisis, pharmaceutical care has entered a new phase, demonstrating the ability of pharmacists to be competent and accessible providers of public health. Based on this information, we conducted a narrative review whose purpose was to identify the impact of the authorities' decisions on pharmaceutical practice, the involvement of professional associations, and the responsibilities of the pharmacy owners and management. On the other hand, we performed a global assessment on the pharmaceutical care services provided by community pharmacists as well as by clinical or hospital pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steliana Ghibu
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6A Louis Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anca Maria Juncan
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Luca Liviu Rus
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Adina Frum
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Carmen Maximiliana Dobrea
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Adriana Aurelia Chiş
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Felicia Gabriela Gligor
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Claudiu Morgovan
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
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Ivanova V, Pavlov D, Assenova T, Terzieva E, Milushewa P, Djemadan A, Vladimirova G, Dimitrova M, Kamusheva M. COVID-19 pandemic impact on the pharmaceutical sector in Bulgaria. PHARMACIA 2021. [DOI: 10.3897/pharmacia.68.e71638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In December, 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, a new, unknown strain of coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 was identified. The virus has spread rapidly to other countries around the world, among which the most affected were Italy, Spain and the United States. As a result, in March 2020 The WHO has declared the new coronavirus epidemic a global pandemic. Despite timely measures and efforts to reduce morbidity, up to date, confirmed cases are 119,452,269, while the number of deaths reached 2,647,662 people. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all areas of human life – health, social, economic. In each of them, a number of restrictions and obligations were imposed, including wearing of masks, use of disinfectants, education in an online environment, limited work in restaurants and shops. The health sector was particularly affected, and all actors in the pharmaceutical system had to reorganize and adapt their activities in the name of a common goal – ending the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Waszyk-Nowaczyk M, Guzenda W, Kamasa K, Pawlak K, Bałtruszewicz N, Artyszuk K, Białoszewski A, Merks P. Cooperation Between Pharmacists and Physicians - Whether It Was Before and is It Still Ongoing During the Pandemic? J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:2101-2110. [PMID: 34393489 PMCID: PMC8357703 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s318480] [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: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, it is very important to put an emphasis on widely understood teamwork. This is of great importance for achieving and maintaining success in all areas, especially in medicine. This kind of unity has many advantages, including unique ideas that are very helpful in a competitive environment, improve performance and knowledge, and create stronger supportive work relationships. Patient’s health can be improved by using comprehensive treatment. This provides an urgent need for multidisciplinary partnership in the medical community. Optimal pharmacological treatment is crucial to achieving treatment goals. To ensure excellent quality of medical care, interprofessional cooperation between physicians and pharmacists and/or other medical professionals is necessary. Their complementary knowledge and experience can lead to improved health outcomes and can also reduce treatment costs. There are also many barriers and difficulties in legal systems that would allow for more effective inter-professional cooperation. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to emphasizing the role of the pharmacist, increasing powers, and at the same time to teamwork, sometimes forced by the situation. The purpose of this publication is to view the literature on the cooperation of physicians and pharmacists in the provision of medical services for patients. Professional cooperation has been well known in many countries for years, as it is a key medium supporting optimized patient care. Analyzing the challenges and approaches can lead to better and improved health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Waszyk-Nowaczyk
- Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Weronika Guzenda
- Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Karolina Kamasa
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Kornel Pawlak
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Natalia Bałtruszewicz
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Karolina Artyszuk
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Artur Białoszewski
- Department of the Prevention of Environmental Hazards and Allergology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-091, Poland
| | - Piotr Merks
- Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Warsaw, 01-938, Poland
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Sami SA, Marma KKS, Chakraborty A, Singha T, Rakib A, Uddin MG, Hossain MK, Uddin SMN. A comprehensive review on global contributions and recognition of pharmacy professionals amidst COVID-19 pandemic: moving from present to future. FUTURE JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 2021; 7:119. [PMID: 34150911 PMCID: PMC8195448 DOI: 10.1186/s43094-021-00273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19, a respiratory tract infection caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a burning question worldwide as it gives rise to a pandemic situation. No specific medications are still recommended for COVID-19; however, healthcare support is crucial for ameliorating the disease condition. Pharmacists are the frontline fighters who are responsible for providing healthcare support to the COVID-19 infected patients around the world. This review endeavored to briefly rationalize the contributions of several pharmacy professionals in diverse fields along with their collaborative efforts and dedication regarding their limitations during the COVID-19 situation and view the prospects of pharmaceutical care services in the post-pandemic period. MAIN BODY OF THE ABSTRACT Online databases were utilized to search for scholarly articles and organizational websites, to sum up the information about the contemporary and expanded role of pharmacists. Key articles were retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct databases using terms: "COVID-19," "novel coronavirus," "community," "industrial," "hospital," "clinical," "recognition," "obstacles," "collaboration," "SARS-CoV-2," "healthcare," and "outbreak" in combination with "pharmacist." The articles were included from the inception of the pandemic to January 25, 2021. The current review found pharmacist's global contributions and involvements with other professionals to provide healthcare services amidst COVID-19. This included testing of suspects, providing medical information, psycho-social support, debunking myths, mitigating drug shortage events, telemedicine, e-prescription, infection control, and controlling the drug supply chain. In many countries, pharmacists' activities were much appreciated but in some countries, they were not properly acknowledged for their contributions amidst COVID-19 outbreak. They played additional roles such as participating in the antimicrobial stewardship team, improving value-added services, conducting clinical data analysis to suppress the outspread of the SARS-CoV-2. SHORT CONCLUSION During the COVID-19 pandemic while the whole world is fighting against an invisible virus, the pharmacists are the earnest hero to serve their responsibilities along with additional activities. They need to be prepared and collaborate with other healthcare professionals further to meet the challenges of post-pandemic circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Ahmed Sami
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Kay Kay Shain Marma
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Agnila Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Tandra Singha
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Ahmed Rakib
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Md. Giash Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | | | - S. M. Naim Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
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Li X, Peng T. Strategy, Progress, and Challenges of Drug Repurposing for Efficient Antiviral Discovery. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:660710. [PMID: 34017257 PMCID: PMC8129523 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.660710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging or re-emerging viruses are still major threats to public health. Prophylactic vaccines represent the most effective way to prevent virus infection; however, antivirals are more promising for those viruses against which vaccines are not effective enough or contemporarily unavailable. Because of the slow pace of novel antiviral discovery, the high disuse rates, and the substantial cost, repurposing of the well-characterized therapeutics, either approved or under investigation, is becoming an attractive strategy to identify the new directions to treat virus infections. In this review, we described recent progress in identifying broad-spectrum antivirals through drug repurposing. We defined the two major categories of the repurposed antivirals, direct-acting repurposed antivirals (DARA) and host-targeting repurposed antivirals (HTRA). Under each category, we summarized repurposed antivirals with potential broad-spectrum activity against a variety of viruses and discussed the possible mechanisms of action. Finally, we proposed the potential investigative directions of drug repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, College of Basic Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, College of Basic Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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30
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Alotaibi NH, Alzarea AI, Alotaibi AM, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Alharbi KS, Alruwaili NK, Alanazi AS, Hassan A, Alotaib BS. Exploring satisfaction level among outpatients regarding pharmacy facilities and services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; a large regional analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247912. [PMID: 33793604 PMCID: PMC8016244 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evaluation of patients`satisfaction towards pharmacy services is of utmost importance to ensure the quality of care. It helps in identifying domains requiring improvements to provide high quality pharmacy services to ensure the provision of enhanced pharmaceutical care. The current study aims to ascertain the extent of satisfaction towards pharmacy services among patients attending outpatient pharmacies in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study involving 746 patients attending outpatient pharmacies of various public hospitals was conducted from 01 January to 15 February 2020. Information on socio-demographic profile of the study subjects along with their satisfaction towards outpatient pharmacy was extracted by using a 23-items questionnaire. These questions were divided into two domains including 7 questions related to the pharmacy facilities (questions from 1F to 7F) and 8 questions for pharmacy services (questions from 1S to 8S), where F and S denotes facilities and services, respectively. The cumulative satisfaction score was estimated by a 5-item Likert scale with a maximum score of 5 for each item. The relationship between demographics and satisfaction scores was evaluated by using appropriate statistics. Results There were 746 patients with male preponderance (58.8%). The overall satisfaction score was 2.97 ± 0.65. Satisfaction towards pharmacy services scored lower (mean score: 3.91 ± 0.77) than pharmacy facilities (mean score: 4.03 ± 0.66). Items related to patient`s counseling (3F, 2S, 3S, 6S) scored least during the analysis. Older patients (p = 0.006), male gender (p<0.001), Saudi nationality (0.035), patients attending primary care centers (p = 0.02), and patients with chronic illnesses were significantly associated with lower satisfaction score. Conclusion This study reported that the satisfaction level of patients attending outpatient pharmacies was low and differed among various socio-demographic groups. Approximately one-half of the patients were not satisfied with outpatient pharmacy services. These findings underscore the dire need for managerial interventions including the hiring of trained professionals, onsite training of pharmacy staff, initiation of clinical or patient centered pharmacy services, evaluation of patient`s response towards the services and appropriate controlling measures, irrespective to the type of hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasser Hadal Alotaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail: (THM); (NHA)
| | - Abdulaziz Ibrahim Alzarea
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Mohammed Alotaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail: (THM); (NHA)
| | - Khalid Saad Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabil K. Alruwaili
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S. Alanazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City (USC), Sadat City, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Badriyah Shadid Alotaib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdualrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Analysis of anaesthesia services to calculate national need and supply of anaesthetics in Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248997. [PMID: 33740018 PMCID: PMC7978279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Switzerland, details of current anaesthesia practice are unknown. However, they are urgently needed to manage anaesthesia drug supply in times of drug shortages due to the pandemic. Methods We surveyed all Swiss anaesthesia institutions in April 2020 to determine their annual anaesthesia activity. Together with a detailed analysis on anaesthetic drug use of a large, representative Swiss anaesthesia index institution, calculations and projections for the annual need of anaesthetics in Switzerland were made. Only those drugs have been analysed that are either being used very frequently or that have been classified critical with regard to their supply by the pharmacy of the index institution or the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health. Results The response rate to our questionnaire was 98%. Out of the present 188 Swiss anaesthesia institutions, 185 responded. In Switzerland, the annual number of anaesthesias was 1’071’054 (12’445 per 100’000 inhabitants) with a mean anaesthesia time of 2.03 hours. Teaching hospitals (n = 54) performed more than half (n = 572’231) and non-teaching hospitals (n = 103) provided almost half of all anaesthesias (n = 412’531). Thereby, private hospitals conducted a total of 290’690 anaesthesias. Finally, office-based anaesthesia institutions with mainly outpatients (n = 31) administered 86’292 anaesthesias. Regarding type of anaesthesia provided, two thirds were general anaesthesias (42% total intravenous, 17% inhalation, 8% combined), 20% regional and 12% monitored anaesthesia care. Projecting for example the annual need for propofol in anaesthesia, Switzerland requires 48’573 L of propofol 1% which corresponds to 5’644 L propofol 1% per 100’000 inhabitants every year. Conclusions To actively manage anaesthesia drug supply in the context of the current pandemic, it is mandatory to have a detailed understanding of the number and types of anaesthesias provided. On this basis, the Swiss annual consumption of anaesthetics could be projected and the replenishment organized.
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Influence of COVID-19 on Health-Related Quality of Life and the Perception of Being Vaccinated to Prevent COVID-19: An Approach for Community Pharmacists from Romania and Bulgaria. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10040864. [PMID: 33669744 PMCID: PMC7923195 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacists are essential front-line health workers, involved in relieving the COVID-19 burden. Their health-related quality of life status needs to be assessed, as lower levels could affect their functioning. In order to evaluate the current status of community pharmacists’ quality of life from Romania and Bulgaria during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to identify factors associated with their decision on being vaccinated to prevent COVID-19, an online survey involving 395 community pharmacists was conducted from 15th July 2020 to 15th August 2020. The 15D instrument was used for quality-of-life assessment. The pharmacists’ recommendations for vitamin C and D intake during the COVID-19 pandemic were also analyzed in order to promote future training programs for community pharmacists. Descriptive statistics, comparative analyses between pharmacists from Romania and Bulgaria, and multiple correlation analyses were performed on the collected data. Significant differences were observed for the level of quality of life between the two groups of pharmacists according to their age; smaller values, directly correlated with their age (total 15D score and age: Spearman r = 0.168, p = 0.022), were obtained for Bulgarian pharmacists regarding sleeping, usual activities, mental function, discomfort and symptoms, depression, distress. The perception of being vaccinated did not differ between Romanian and Bulgarian pharmacists, as almost 50% agreed to vaccination (p = 0.7542). Their willingness to vaccinate was correlated with vitamin D usage (p = 0.0134), rather than with vitamin C (p = 0.4157). No other significant associations were found between willingness to get vaccinated to prevent COVID-19 and other characteristics (age, gender, income, quality-of-life markers). Evidence-based interventions are required to enhance the health-related quality of life of community pharmacists involved in the first line of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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