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Factors Associated with the Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions by Health Workers in Nnewi Nigeria
Abstract
Background: Under‑reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) by the prescribers is a common public health problem. Monitoring of factors that infuence ADR reporting will reduce risks associated with drug use; improve patients care, safety and treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to determine the factors associated with the reporting of ADRs by health workers in Nnewi Nigeria.
Methods: A cross‑sectional study of 372 health workers in different health facilities in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra state, selected using multistage sampling technique was done. Data collection employed pretested, self‑administered structured questionnaires. Data were
analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 17. Tests of statistical signifcance were carried out using Chi‑square tests for proportions. A P < 0.05 was considered signifcant.
Results: Out of the 372 respondents studied, 255 (68.5%) were females, and 117 (31.5%) were
males. The modal age range (37.6%) was 31–40 years. Factors related by the respondents to infuence ADR reporting include: Unavailability of electronic reporting (83.6%), unavailability of
reporting forms (66.4%) and ignorance (58.2%). The difference among medical practitioners who related unavailability of electronic reporting process as obstacle to ADR reporting was not signifcant (P = 0.18).
Conclusions: The study results revealed the factors associated with the reporting of ADRs among health workers in Nnewi Nigeria. It is desirable to initiate electronic reporting process, training programs on ADR reporting and make reporting forms/guidelines available to relevant health workers.
Keywords: Adverse drug reporting, determinants, health workers, Nnewi Nigeria
Methods: A cross‑sectional study of 372 health workers in different health facilities in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra state, selected using multistage sampling technique was done. Data collection employed pretested, self‑administered structured questionnaires. Data were
analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 17. Tests of statistical signifcance were carried out using Chi‑square tests for proportions. A P < 0.05 was considered signifcant.
Results: Out of the 372 respondents studied, 255 (68.5%) were females, and 117 (31.5%) were
males. The modal age range (37.6%) was 31–40 years. Factors related by the respondents to infuence ADR reporting include: Unavailability of electronic reporting (83.6%), unavailability of
reporting forms (66.4%) and ignorance (58.2%). The difference among medical practitioners who related unavailability of electronic reporting process as obstacle to ADR reporting was not signifcant (P = 0.18).
Conclusions: The study results revealed the factors associated with the reporting of ADRs among health workers in Nnewi Nigeria. It is desirable to initiate electronic reporting process, training programs on ADR reporting and make reporting forms/guidelines available to relevant health workers.
Keywords: Adverse drug reporting, determinants, health workers, Nnewi Nigeria