Pharmacists self-perceived role competence in prevention and containment of COVID-19: A cross-sectional study.
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ABSTRACT: Introduction
The increased need for prioritized infection prevention and control (IPC) activities for the prevention and containment of COVID-19 is pivotal and timely in preventing harm caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about pharmacists' infection IPC activities and their role competence during disease outbreaks. This study aimed to assess pharmacists' perceived role competence to perform frontline roles during the COVID-19 pandemic.Method
A cross-sectional survey was conducted using online social media to recruit eligible participants. A validated questionnaire contained 41 items on sociodemographic characteristics, preventative behaviors, and competencies.Results
A total of 486 participants completed the survey. Participants reported several IPC activities that could potentially prevent COVID-19 spread. The majority expressed high attitudes towards their capabilities to fulfill their healthcare roles (M = 4.43, SD = 0.46, out of 5). The vast majority of participants (97.1%) were willing to demonstrate the effective way of cleaning hands and using facemasks. Pharmacists (89.1%) showed their willingness to timely refer patients in response to their emerging needs. Gender, age groups, years of experience, monthly incomes, area of work, ability to make a referral, source of information, and self-isolation discontinuation criteria were significantly associated with pharmacists' self-perceived role competence.Conclusion
Pharmacists are well-positioned as access points to care and can potentially play a significant role in the containment of the COVID-19 outbreak by delivering advanced clinical and public health services. Future research efforts need to be comprehensively directed towards the advanced role of pharmacists in implementing point-of-care testing for infectious diseases.
SUBMITTER: Muflih S
PROVIDER: S-EPMC7997263 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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Project description:BackgroundRecent studies have revealed that pharmacists have interest in conducting research. However, lack of confidence is a major barrier.ObjectiveThis study evaluated pharmacists' self-perceived competence and confidence to plan and conduct health-related research.MethodThis cross sectional study was conducted during the 89th Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in November 2016. An adapted questionnaire was validated and administered to 200 pharmacist delegates during the conference.ResultOverall, 127 questionnaires were included in the analysis. At least 80% of the pharmacists had previous health-related research experience. Pharmacist's competence and confidence scores were lowest for research skills such as: using software for statistical analysis, choosing and applying appropriate inferential statistical test and method, and outlining detailed statistical plan to be used in data analysis. Highest competence and confidence scores were observed for conception of research idea, literature search and critical appraisal of literature. Pharmacists with previous research experience had higher competence and confidence scores than those with no previous research experience (p<0.05). The only predictor of moderate-to-extreme self-competence and confidence was having at least one journal article publication during the last 5 years.ConclusionNigerian pharmacists indicated interest to participate in health-related research. However, self-competence and confidence to plan and conduct research were low. This was particularly so for skills related to statistical analysis. Training programs and building of Pharmacy Practice Research Network are recommended to enhance pharmacist's research capacity.
| S-EPMC5881485 | biostudies-literature
Project description:ObjectivesThis study aims to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceived challenges regarding coronavirus disease 2019 among pharmacists in Palestine.MethodsAn online method was used to collect the data. Three hundred sixty-four pharmacists participated in the study from all areas in the Palestinian territories. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: sociodemographics; knowledge, attitudes, practices regarding coronavirus disease 2019; and barriers that prevent the implementation of infection control measures. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program Version 21 was used to analyze the data. Variables were expressed as frequencies, percentages, mean, and median. The chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Pearson's test were applied, along with logistic regression analysis.ResultsThe median age of the participants was 29 years old, and most of them were female (70.9%). The analysis found that 76.4% of pharmacists had good knowledge regarding coronavirus disease 2019, and 52.7% had good practices. The median attitude score recorded by the participants was 32 points [Q1-Q3: 30-34] out of 35. Notably, the level of concern regarding coronavirus disease 2019 was significantly associated with all three tools of measurement; knowledge (p = 0.001), attitudes (p = 0.001), and practices (p = 0.001). It also appears that more years of experience had higher odds (3-5 years of experience: odds ratio, 2.560; 95% confidence interval, 1.413-4.639; p = 0.002, more than 5 years: odds ratio, 2.931; 95% confidence interval, 1.188-7.232; p = 0.020) of good practice.ConclusionAlthough an acceptable level of knowledge was found, it might be considered inadequate. Moreover, there is a lack of appropriate adherence to safety measures from pharmacists. Therefore, we recommend the responsible authorities generate an organized training program to expand pharmacists' knowledge and experience regarding coronavirus disease 2019.
| S-EPMC8771730 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundThere is a paucity of data on pharmacists' competency and learning needs in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS).ObjectivesTo identify and prioritize learning needs based on self-perceived competence of ward pharmacists in AMS, to identify predictors of self-perceived competence, learning methods in AMS and perceived barriers to learning.MethodsA cross-sectional survey involving ward pharmacists from Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM) and hospitals under the Ministry of Health was conducted from May to July 2018.ResultsA total of 553 ward pharmacists from 67 hospitals responded to this survey (71.3% response rate). Knowledge of infections, antimicrobials and AMS systems, confidence to advise on various issues relating to antimicrobial therapy and participation in clinical audit and evaluation were among the learning needs identified (median score 3.00). Meanwhile, knowledge on the epidemiology of infections, off-label use of antimicrobials and pharmacoeconomics relating to antimicrobials had lower median scores (2.00) and were thus prioritized as high learning needs. Significant predictors of self-perceived competence in AMS were: gender (P < 0.001); prior specific training in infections and AMS (P < 0.001); postgraduate degree (P < 0.001); practising in the area of infectious disease (P < 0.05); and years of working experience as a ward pharmacist (P < 0.005). Continuing medical education, seminars, courses and workshops were the most common (78.1%) and preferred (84.6%) learning methods in AMS. Lack of appropriate training (67.8%), time (44.5%) and funding (42.5%) topped the list of barriers to learning in AMS.ConclusionsFindings in this study suggest the need to establish and intensify standardized training in AMS among government ward pharmacists.
| S-EPMC8210314 | biostudies-literature
Project description:In March 2020 schools in Austria temporarily closed and switched to distance learning to contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The resulting situation posed great challenges to teachers, guardians and students (Huber and Helm 2020). Research has shown that perceived competence (Deci and Ryan 2000) affects selfregulated learning (SRL), intrinsic motivation and procrastination, however few studies have considered these variables in context of distance learning among adolescents. This study investigated differences in students who perceived themselves as high vs. low in competence with respect to these constructs. In an online questionnaire, 2652 Austrian secondary school students answered closed questions regarding SRL, intrinsic motivation and procrastination as well as open-ended questions about challenges, successes and need for support in distance. Structural equation modeling was applied for the quantitative analysis which was complemented by thematic analysis for the qualitative questions (Braun and Clarke 2006). Results showed that students who experienced themselves as highly competent use SRL strategies (goal setting and planning, time management, metacognitive strategies) more often and are more intrinsically motivated than students with lower perceived competence. They also procrastinate less. Furthermore, qualitative analysis revealed that although all students face similar challenges (e.g., independent learning, time and task management, learning on the computer, lack of contact with teachers and peers), students who perceived themselves as highly competent seemed to cope better, and have less need for support. Implications for distance learning and future research are discussed.Supplementary informationThe online version of this article (10.1007/s11618-021-01002-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
| S-EPMC7931168 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Background: Self-medication is an important issue for health authorities around the world. It is also a common practice among university students. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of and reasons for self-medication among university students. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional community based survey design was adopted for the current study. All the students enrolled in Hail University, Saudi Arabia were selected to include in the study. Data was collected from February to April 2020 using a validated questionnaire and were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 22.0. Using convenient sampling technique, the total sample size calculated was 370 participants. A descriptive analysis was performed. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression was used for analyzing the data where statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: A total of 373 participants completed the questionnaire. The response rate was 84%. The overall prevalence of self-medication among the students was 98.2%. Of the 373 participants, 40.8% were men, and 59.2% were women. Furthermore, 56% were in fields other than health sciences, 23.1% were in preparatory foundation courses, and 20.9% were from the health and medical sciences. The most frequent medical condition that led to self-medication was headaches (92.85%), followed by coughs (37.5%), colic (31.9%) and influenza (30.3%). On univariate analysis, it is revealed that for both abdominal colic [OR 0.54 (0.34-0.86), p = 0.01] and constipation [OR 0.57 (0.32-1.02), p 0.05], female gender was observed significantly with low prevalence than male. However, for influenza, the self-medication prevalence [OR 1.86 (1.19-2.91), p = 0.006] observed was significantly higher in female participants than male. A significant association (p = 0.011) between the self-medication factors and gender was shown in the current study results. Conclusion: An alarming prevalence of self-medication among the students was recorded. Health care providers can increase awareness of the issue by educating individuals about the harmful effects of irresponsible self-medication.
| S-EPMC8718403 | biostudies-literature
Project description:ObjectivesWorldwide, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health challenges for adolescent populations. The current study aims to examine the levels of perceived stress of COVID-19 and self-compassion and their relationship among adolescents in Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis study employed a cross-sectional online survey of adolescents from secondary schools in Asir, Saudi Arabia. Instruments that we distributed online included the modified Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), in addition to demographic and health-related questions. A total of 500 adolescents completed the survey.ResultsAdolescents in the study reported an average moderate perceived stress level of 18.6 (SD = 6.67) and an average moderate self-compassion level of 3.22 (SD = 0.53). A significant correlation is also found between the two variables (r = -0.460, P < 0.001). This negative correlation indicates that lower levels of perceived stress are significantly correlated with higher levels of self-compassion.ConclusionThe study results show that the perceived stress of COVID-19 is inversely correlated with self-compassion in Saudi adolescents. Further research is needed to explore how to enhance adolescents' self-compassion. School nurses' role should be given full play in this area.
| S-EPMC10037312 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundPharmacists are integral members of healthcare teams, providing accessible nutrition care to patients, carers and health professionals. However, little is known about nutrition competence among pharmacists.ObjectiveThe aim of the study is to determine the self-perceived competence in providing nutrition care among pharmacists in Ireland.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used a mixed methods design consisting of an online survey delivered to pharmacists in Ireland. The pharmacists' self-perceived competencies according to confidence in knowledge, skills, communication and counselling, and attitudes in nutrition care were assessed using the validated NUTCOMP questionnaire. Qualitative responses in relation to nutrition knowledge were also gathered. Questionnaire responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and free text narratives were coded into themes and subthemes.ResultsA total of n = 557 (74% (n = 413) female; 24.1% (n = 134) male) respondents completed the questionnaire providing a 14.9% response rate. Confidence in nutrition knowledge (mean score (SD) 21.6 (±4.31) out of a maximum of 35 points), nutrition skills (mean score (SD) 31.8 (±7.74) out of a maximum count of 55) and nutrition related counselling and communication (mean score (SD) 29.8 (±6.35) out of a maximum of 45 points) were limited. Most respondents had completed a programme with some nutrition content (60.8%) either formally or informally. Previous nutrition education was positively associated with greater scores in knowledge, skills, communication/counselling and attitudes towards nutrition care (p = ≤0.001). Over three-quarters of respondents (78.1%) agreed that they would like further nutrition education to support themselves in their roles as pharmacists. Thematic analysis highlights the role of interprofessional nutrition care, barriers to providing nutritional care in practice and opportunities for improving nutrition training.ConclusionsMost pharmacists reported being somewhat confident in their nutrition knowledge, skills and attitudes and are willing to participate in further nutrition education to support their patients. The findings suggest that there are other barriers to providing nutrition care in the pharmacy setting such as time, renumeration and lack of community dietitians.
| S-EPMC9722491 | biostudies-literature
Project description:This study is a non-randomized, 2-arm clinical trial comparing the effectiveness of two strategies for distributing FIT (fecal immunochemical test) kits in a community-based colorectal cancer screening program targeting African Americans (AAs). The main questions this study aims to answer are:
* Does the on-site distribution of FIT kits result in higher return rates compared to direct mailing?
* Which distribution strategy (onsite vs. direct mailing) is a more cost-effective approach for increasing colorectal cancer screening rates among underserved populations?
Participants in the study will be African Americans who are eligible for colorectal cancer screening. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups: the on-site distribution group or the direct mailing group. In the on-site distribution group, participants will be given FIT kits at a designated Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) service location. In the direct mailing group, participants will receive the FIT kits through the mail using the DMV database.
| 63422 | ecrin-mdr-crc
Project description:BACKGROUND:The rising prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) calls for effective prevention programs. Self-assessment of CMD risk, for example through an online risk score (ORS), might induce risk reducing behavior. However, the concept of disease risk is often difficult for people to understand. Therefore, the study objective was to assess the impact of communicating an individualized CMD risk score through an ORS on perceived risk and to identify risk factors and demographic characteristics associated with risk perception among high-risk participants of a prevention program for CMD. METHODS:A cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial conducted in a primary care setting. Seven thousand five hundred forty-seven individuals aged 45-70?years without recorded CMD, hypertension or hypercholesterolemia participated. The main outcome measures were: 1) differences in cognitive and affective risk perception between the intervention group - who used an ORS and received an individualized CMD risk score- and the control group who answered questions about CMD risk, but did not receive an individualized CMD risk score; 2) risk factors and demographic characteristics associated with risk perception. RESULTS:No differences were found in cognitive and affective risk perception between the intervention and control group and risk perception was on average low, even among high-risk participants. A positive family history for diabetes type 2 (?0.56, CI95% 0.39-0.73) and cardiovascular disease (?0.28, CI95% 0.13-0.43), BMI ?25 (?0.27, CI95% 0.12-0.43), high waist circumference (?0.25, CI95% 0.02-0.48) and physical inactivity (?0.30, CI95% 0.16-0.45) were positively associated with cognitive CMD risk perception in high-risk participants. No other risk factors or demographic characteristics were associated with risk perception. CONCLUSIONS:Communicating an individualized CMD risk score did not affect risk perception. A mismatch was found between calculated risk and self-perceived risk in high-risk participants. Family history and BMI seem to affect the level of CMD risk perception more than risk factors such as sex, age and smoking. A dialogue about personal CMD risk between patients and health care professionals might optimize the effect of the provided risk information. TRIAL REGISTRATION:Dutch trial Register number NTR4277, registered 26th Nov 2013.
| S-EPMC7238643 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Background: Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is a key prevention strategy in addressing the global concern of increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Pharmacists are one of the integral members of AMS hospital teams around the world. Toward reducing AMR, a major strategy in China is to improve the capacity and participation of pharmacists in the AMS framework. However, little is known about how hospital pharmacists perceive their position and participation in AMS work, and the barriers to this work in China, especially in the Northwest region. Methods: Region this work describes a cross-sectional, anonymous, online survey study. Hospital pharmacists from five provinces/autonomous regions in northwest China were invited to participate in June and July 2020. Participants completed the survey by using WeChat, a popular social application in China. We purposefully distributed the questionnaire link and QR code to hospital pharmacists through the hospital antimicrobial resistance surveillance network, hospital antimicrobial consumption surveillance network, provincial and city pharmaceutical associations, and hospital pharmacist WeChat groups. Results: Out of 1032 respondents, 93.1% believed that AMS programs promote the judicial prescribing of antimicrobials, 95.5% strongly agreed that AMS could reduce the widespread use of antimicrobials, and 92.3% believed that AMS could improve medical services. Pharmacists were most likely to be involved in AMS through reviewing prescriptions of antimicrobials, intervening in inappropriate prescriptions, and providing feedback on antimicrobial prescriptions and medical orders. Barriers to participating in AMS included workload (59.5% of respondents), ineffective communication between pharmacists and doctors (57.7%), and inadequate knowledge of AMS (47.0%). Differences in responses were found between the five surveyed provinces. A significant association was found between median involvement scores and gender, age, education, level of superiority, experience, and type of hospital (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Pharmacists perceived that AMS programs are important, but that their involvement in related activities is limited in all provinces. Further studies and strategies should consider how to overcome the identified barriers to optimize the participation of pharmacists in AMS programs.
| S-EPMC8117155 | biostudies-literature