Pharmacist’s knowledge about the safe use of TCS in atopic dermatitis: a pre–post-survey study evaluating the impact of TCS reading module

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to assess pharmacists’ knowledge about the safe use of topical corticosteroids (TCS) in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) and to determine whether their knowledge and beliefs can be modified after reading the designed module on TCS use in AD. Methods A multicentre cross-sectional survey study was conducted among pharmacists working in the healthcare facilities of Malaysia between February 2018 and April 2019. A total of 310 pharmacists were participated and requested to complete the questionnaire before (pre-test) and 1 week after reading the designed TCS module (post-test). Results Pharmacist’s post-module score [median = 8 (interquartile range {IQR} 5–11)] was significantly higher than their pre-module score [median = 5 (IQR1–10; P < 0.001)]. After reading the TCS module, there was a significant increase in correct responses observed to the dispensing activities, application recommendations and side effects associated with the inappropriate use of TCS (P < 0.001). Pharmacists were found highly confident in the use of TCS after reading the designed module with a mean score of 8.0 (95% confidence interval 7.87–8.13) out of 10 measured on the Likert scale. Conclusion TCS module has been proven effective in enhancing pharmacists’ knowledge about the safe use of TCS in the treatment of AD.