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Knowledge, attitude & practice towards self-medication among nursing students in a teaching hospital of north India

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Original Article

Author Details : Palvi Kudyar*, Shivani Rani, Pavan Malhotra

Volume : 5, Issue : 4, Year : 2018

Article Page : 159-163

https://doi.org/10.18231/2393-9087.2018.0033

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Abstract

Introduction: Self-medication the use of medication by a patient on his own initiative is increasing widely due to easy accessibility and availability of vast knowledge as a source of information about various drugs more so in the youth. This practice is larger in healthcare students and if used irrationally can lead to various adversities including resistance for drugs.
Objective: Aim of the study is to assess the prevalence, knowledge, attitudes & practices towards self medication among nursing students in Acharya shri Chander College of medical sciences, Jammu.
Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among first year, second & third year nursing students using a 16 questions questionnaire comprising of knowledge, attitude & practice related queries. The responses were recorded and assessment was made based on them.
Results: The prevalence of self-medication was high in the study population, with most people relying on previous prescriptions as drug source, using self medications for quick relief with risk of ADR being the most common cause of avoidance. Antipyretics were most rampantly used as self medication but there is lack of sufficient knowledge about the same. Though, the responders exhibit positive attitude and yearn to bring about change in the scenario with alteration of certain policies & regulations.
Conclusion: There is a rise in the practice of self-medication among nursing students with lack of knowledge but positive attitude towards the same.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Self-medication, Nursing students.

How to cite : Kudyar P , Rani S, Malhotra P, Knowledge, attitude & practice towards self-medication among nursing students in a teaching hospital of north India. Indian J Pharm Pharmacol 2018;5(4):159-163

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