Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Adverse Drug Reaction reporting among healthcare professionals in Teaching Hospital Karapitiya

Abstract

Objectives The objectives of this study were to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR) reporting among healthcare professionals in Teaching Hospital Karapitiya (THK). Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at THK. The healthcare professionals working in THK who were available during the study period were invited to the study. A self-administered pre-tested questionnaire was given to the participants. Respondents were evaluated for their knowledge, attitudes and practices related to ADR reporting. The data was analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results Of the total 444 respondents, 31% were doctors and 69% were nurses. Majority of respondents, 90% (n=400) were aware about the term ADR, while 64.8% (n=288) could correctly define it. Among the respondents, 30.8% (n=137) knew about the types of ADR and only 15.5% (n= 70) were able to correctly mention a drug that is banned due to ADR. Among the respondents, only 38.7% (n=172) were aware about formal process of reporting ADR and, only 35.3% (n=157) stated that they have seen ADR reporting form. Further, only 33.7% (n=150) respondents have recognized ADR in the practice and only a small proportion 18.2% (n=81) have ever reported an ADR during their practice. Regarding attitudes of ADR reporting, overall 84.1 (n=373) had positive attitude towards ADR reporting while 13.54% (n=60) of them stayed neutral and 2.25% (n=10) had negative attitude towards ADR reporting. Conclusions Although the majority was aware about ADR and the importance of their reporting, the knowledge and practices regarding the spontaneous reporting of ADR is inadequate. However, most of the respondents have shown a positive attitude towards ADR reporting. Sincere and sustained efforts should be made by concerned bodies to improve the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of health care professionals.