Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Background and objectiveFollowing signs of lacking drug related information for inpatients in the orthopedic care unit of Mälarsjukhuset, Eskilstuna, a clinical pharmacist intervention comprised of bedside reconciliation for newly prescribed drugs prior to discharge combined with information leaflets for home use was enacted by the care unit. The aim of this study was to evauluate this intervention from the patients perspective to identify areas in need of improvement
DesignA mixed method approach consisting of a questionnaire based on ”Nationella patientenkäten” and telephone interviews was used. Patients that were included in the intervention and accepted participation in this study were either sent questionnaires through the digital tool Webropol or recieved telephone interviews between w. 4-17 2022. Results from the questionnaire were compiled and analyzed for statistical dispersion while inductive content analysis based in grounded theory was used to analyze the results from the interviews.
SettingOrthopedic care ward, Mälarsjukhuset Eskilstuna
Main outcome measuresIdentification of key areas in need of improvement or further analysis to optimize the current intervention procedure at the care unit from the patients standpoint.
ResultsOut of 40 people who recieved the intervention, 25 participated in the questionnaire and 9 in the interviews. Key themes and categories from the interview analysis combined with the quantitative questionaire data, while generelly positive, pointed toward optimization of the information content and stremlining of the process at the care unit as the two main areas in need of improvement
ConclusionsWhile mostly appreciated by the study group, the current intervention procedure requires further optimization to become an effective and fully integrated part of the routines at the orthopedic care unit
Note on conflict of interest: The study was financed in whole by Läkemedelscentrum Sörmland which also employs the clinical pharmacists working in the orthopedic care unit.
2022.