Evaluation of a short-structured learner-centric training program on rational drug prescribing for medical interns: A quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Introduction: Rational drug prescribing skills of interns remain bleak despite clinical pharmacology training during their second year, warranting the need for further training. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a short-structured learner-centric training program using the World Health Organization (WHO) guide to good prescribing in improving interns’ knowledge of rational drug use and their rational drug prescribing skills. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was implemented at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India. We conducted a short-structured learner-centric training program on rational drug prescribing for interns in September 2022, using the WHO guide to good prescribing. The medical interns who consented to participate were included in the study. A pre-test was administered at the start of the training, followed by a post-test and feedback questions at the end of the program. Statistical tests used for quantitative data were the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test and McNemar’s Chi-square test. Qualitative data were analyzed using manual content analysis. Results: Of the 77 interns who attended the training program, 73 provided consent and completed both the pre-test and the post-test. Their mean age was 22 years, with a slight preponderance of female participants (53.4%). Overall, there was a statistically significant increase in the median (interquartile range) total scores from 52 (44.6 – 60) to 84 (70 – 88) after the training (P = 0.001), out of a maximum score of 93. Also, a significantly greater number of them wrote legible prescriptions (grade 4/excellent – 44 in pre-test vs 52 in post-test; P = 0.001) after the training. Conclusion: The short-structured learner-centric training program based on the WHO guide to good prescribing significantly improved the knowledge of rational drug use and rational drug prescribing skills among medical interns.