Pharmacists' knowledge of infusion devices

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Medical Device Technology
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Infusion devices are increasingly utilized in hospital and home healthcare settings.
• Pharmacists play a crucial role in the safe and effective use of these technologies.
• Current educational curricula may not adequately prepare pharmacists for these evolving responsibilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess pharmacists' knowledge of infusion-device technology.
• To identify essential competencies for the use of infusion devices.
• To develop recommendations for improving pharmacy education regarding infusion devices.

Main Methods:

• A mail survey was distributed to pharmacy directors (hospital and home health-care), deans of pharmacy schools, and state pharmaceutical association executives.
• The survey aimed to gauge current knowledge and perceived educational needs related to infusion devices.
• A response rate of 41.2% (237 out of 576) was achieved.

Main Results:

• Respondents anticipate a significant increase in the use of infusion devices within the next five years.
• A consensus emerged that current pharmacy education inadequately covers infusion device technology.
• Key competencies identified include understanding therapeutic applications and selecting appropriate infusion pumps.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacy curricula (undergraduate, postgraduate, and in-service) require enhancement to address infusion device technology.
• Pharmacists must be adequately prepared to manage the growing use of drug-infusion systems.
• Educational institutions and professional organizations should collaborate to update training standards.