Vol. 4, Issue 7 (2015)

Author(s):
Pamidi Pradeep, A Sravya Varma, S Mounika, G Lakshmi Durga, M Prudhvi Kumar, M Vinod Kumar, Rama Rao Nadendla

Abstract:
The aim of this study is to assess the nature and quality of drug information services provided by clinical pharmacists at a tertiary-care teaching hospital, Guntur. A retrospective study, for 12 months in the pharmacy practice department of a tertiary care hospital. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to the study. The drug information center is equipped with required resources and facility (e.g., text books, toll free telephone service, internet and online services).The drug information services provided by the center were recorded in documentation forms. The nature and quality of services provided was assessed by a quality assessment checklist developed in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. A total of 512 queries were received, majority (n = 217; 41.4)%) of the queries were asked by the doctors to provide optimal patient care. Post graduates, nurses, interns and patients have also availed these services but to a lesser extent. Most of the queries were received during ward rounds (n = 258; 50.39%), followed by direct access (n = 183; 35. 74%). The service provided was graded as excellent for the majority of queries (n= 431; 84.17%; p< 0.001), followed by very good (n= 78; 15.23%) and good (n= 3; 0.58%).Clinical pharmacists provided requested services in a skillful, efficient and evidence-based manner to meet the needs of the requestor. The enquiries and information provided is documented in a clear and systematic manner.