Evaluation of pharmacists' knowledge in emergency preparedness and disaster management

Abstract

Background: Emergency preparedness and disaster management are global phenomena that have a significant impact on the economy and healthcare system. Pharmacists have assumed additional responsibilities in the wake of emergencies and disasters that are beyond their training curricula. Some research highlighted the need for pharmacists to assume these responsibilities in the cause of emergency and disaster. The objective of this study is to evaluate pharmacists' knowledge in relation to emergency preparedness and disaster management. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out from April to August 2020, on selected pharmacists from different areas of practice in Kaduna/Nigeria. Participants were evaluated using a self-reported questionnaire which consisted of 15 knowledge questions that were distributed online using pharmacists' social-media platforms. The questionnaire was adapted from previous studies and was validated by the team of expect using face validation and pre-tested. Main outcome: The majority of pharmacists have good knowledge of emergency preparedness and disaster management. Results: The online poll received 102 respondents, and their knowledge was evaluated by rating respondents out of 15 questions. 55%, 40%, and 5% scored good, fair, and poor knowledge respectively. At p<0.05, there was a relationship between knowledge score and years of practice experience, level of education, and area of practice. 44% reported being taught emergency, with the majority at the undergraduate level. 78% of respondents have never participated in drills or workshops. Conclusion: Pharmacists demonstrated good knowledge of basic emergency and disaster terms, they do, however, need to be more conversant with other emergency areas, which necessitates more training and drills.