Abstract

PHARMACEUTICAL CARE INTERVENTIONS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES IN TWO TERTIARY HEALTH CARE FACILITIES IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Ogbonna Brian Onyebuchi*, Ezenduka Charles Chukwuemeka, Nduka Sunday Odunke, Uzodinma Samuel Uchenna, Orji Chima Ernest and Oparah Azuka Cyriacus

ABSTRACT

Background: Studies have shown that pharmaceutical care interventions improve treatment outcomes and reduce development of complications in Type 2 diabetes. Aim: This study assessed the provision of pharmaceutical care among patients with Type 2 diabetes in two tertiary health care facilities in Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on clinical pharmacists using pretested structured questionnaire. Data on pharmacists’ demographics and responsibilities in the management of Type 2 diabetes was analyzed using SPSS Version 16 and descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 204 pharmacists with a mean age of 34.4±10.6 took part in the study. Drug therapy problems assessment was carried out by 186 (97.4%) respondents. Patients’ counseling on self- monitoring of blood sugar was 191(98.5). Patients knowledge of disease state and expectations from treatment was the most assessed outcomes with a value of : 185 (94.9%) and 172 (91.1%) respectively. Conclusion: Study revealed that a good number of respondents carry out pharmaceutical care on patients with Type 2 diabetes Mellitus However, the level of these activities was inconsistent with best practice. This underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach, specialization and development of subspecialties. 

Keywords: Pharmaceutical care, Type 2 diabetes, pharmacists, patients, interventions, complications.