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Systematic Pharmaceutical Educational Approach to Enhance Drug Adherence in Liver Transplant Recipients
S Asavakarn1, Y Sirivatanauksorn1, R Promraj2
1Hepatopancreatobiliary and Transplant Surgery Unit, Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Transplantation Proceedings
|June 21, 2016
Summary
A systematic pharmaceutical education program significantly improved liver transplant patients' knowledge of immunosuppressive drugs. This approach is crucial for enhancing drug adherence and patient outcomes after transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Patient Education
Background:
- Drug adherence is critical for graft and patient survival post-liver transplantation.
- A systematic pharmaceutical educational approach was implemented to enhance adherence to immunosuppressive therapy.
- This initiative aimed to improve patient understanding and compliance with medication regimens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a systematic pharmaceutical educational program.
- To assess the impact of the program on patient knowledge and awareness of immunosuppressive drugs.
- To analyze drug-related problems and adherence rates in liver transplant recipients.
Main Methods:
- A single-center, cross-sectional study involving liver transplant patients receiving pharmaceutical care.
- Implementation of clinical pharmacy services including medication review and patient education using various tools.
- Analysis of drug-related problems (DRPs) and pre- and post-transplantation educational test scores.
Main Results:
- The average total educational test score significantly improved post-intervention (3.48 to 13.30, P < .001).
- Mean scores across all three test sections (immunosuppressants, drug monitoring, general drugs) showed significant increases.
- Incidences of major DRPs, nonadherence, and adverse drug reactions were low (8%, 4%, and 2%, respectively).
Conclusions:
- A systematic pharmaceutical educational approach effectively enhances patient knowledge and awareness regarding immunosuppressive drug use.
- Improved patient understanding correlates with better medication adherence and potentially better transplant outcomes.
- This educational strategy is a valuable tool in managing post-transplant care and optimizing patient survival.
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