bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The evolving role of community pharmacists during COVID-19 in the UAE; assessing preparedness and knowledge
Authors: Al Mazrouei Nadia , Ibrahim Rana M , Al Meslamani Ahmad Z , Abdel-Qader Derar H , Sadeq Adel Shaban , Mohamed Ibrahim Osama 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate community pharmacists’ knowledge about COVID-19 and their preparedness for the pandemic.MethodsThis cross-sectional online survey was conducted (in community pharmacies in the United Arab Emirates) over 3 weeks (24 May 2020 to 14 June 2020). A proportionate random sample of 491 participants was invited to take part. The SPSS version 26 was used for data management and analysis.Key FindingsThe majority of participants (n = 400) had good knowledge about COVID-19 and high level of preparedness for the pandemic control. Most pharmacists agreed (212, 53.0%) or strongly agreed (91, 22.8%) that they have a major role in the management of the ongoing crisis. Most participants had good awareness about the most common methods of COVID-19 transmission (359, 89.7%) and symptoms encountered (368, 92.0%). However, approximately a quarter of participants (103, 25.7%) incorrectly thought COVID-19 was caused by a DNA virus. Participants who had 5–10 and &gt;10 years of experience were 3.95 (P = 0.03) and 1.59 (P = 0.01) times, respectively, were more likely to have good knowledge compared to participants with less than 2 years of experience. Those with good knowledge were more likely to have a specific area for customers with suspected COVID-19 symptoms compared to those with poor knowledge (P = 0.031).ConclusionThis study indicates that years of experience and good knowledge on COVID-19 were significant determinants of pharmacists’ preparedness for the pandemic control.
A rapid review and narrative synthesis of hospital to community pharmacy transfer of care services in England
Authors: Nazar Hamde , Howard Clare , Nazar Zachariah , Watson Neil W 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
A new discharge medicines service in England has been proposed for rollout in July 2020. This study aims to appraise the evidence for hospital to community pharmacy referral services in England. A rapid review methodology was adopted, findings were synthesised and reported narratively. The PubMed search engine was used and specific pharmacy journals were searched in March 2020. Studies published since 2012, reporting on transfer of care (ToC) services provided from hospitals and community pharmacies in England were included. Study data analysed included clinical outcomes; findings relating to implementation, staff and patient perceptions and experiences. Studies were assessed for risk of bias using a critical appraisal checklist.

Key findings
Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The ToC services varied in relation to patients targeted, mode of referral, and post-discharge service provided. There were some conservative observations that ToC services were associated with reduced hospital readmission rates, however other outcomes were less well substantiated. Pharmacy staff were generally supportive of these services for patient benefit, however, patient engagement and accessibility issues have been reported.

Summary
There is some emerging evidence that hospital to community pharmacy referral services are associated with reduced hospital readmission. Service delivery reported in these studies highlights barriers and facilitators to patient recruitment, engagement and follow-up and limitations on recording and measuring meaningful outcomes. Future work is recommended to take advantage of the implementation and delivery of the national service that includes the analysis of patient data at scale to substantiate evidence in this area.
Comparative assessment of competency frameworks for pharmacists in the Western Pacific region including the potential for a regional framework
Authors: Jackson John , Caliph Suzanne , Lee Jun Kyung , Chui Wai Keung 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
To assess the potential for a regional competency framework for pharmacists in the Western Pacific using the Global Competency Framework (GbCF) as a reference.

Methods
Mixed-methods approach used a self-administered survey and semi-structured interviews of 13 countries to evaluate the perceived benefits, existence and content of competency frameworks.

Key findings
Variations in structure, components and emphasis of the four frameworks that do exist indicate significant tailoring to local requirements. Based on these four and the GbCF, 32 competencies allocated into four themes has been proposed.

Conclusion
Varying national requirements mitigate against a single regional competency framework.
Assessing the need for native language in pharmacy education and practice: a survey in the UAE
Authors: Hasan Sanah , Faragallah Alaa , Shanableh Sawsan Deeb , Alebrahem Sundos Qassim 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate pharmacists’ opinions on the need for Arabic in pharmacy education and practice in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).MethodsA questionnaire was developed to address the study objectives and hand delivered to a stratified sample of community pharmacists and a convenience sample of pharmacists in other areas of practice in the UAE. Pharmacists’ responses were measured on a 5-point Likert-type scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree) towards teaching of the following topics in Arabic: management of chronic diseases and minor ailments, screening for diseases and counselling on smoking cessation, exercise, weight management, diet and nutrition and complementary/alternative medicine. Topics related to communication skills were also assessed. Descriptive statistics on participant responses were calculated and chi-square test of independence examined inter-relationships among pharmacist and pharmacy variables.Key findingsA total of 351 pharmacists completed the questionnaire. Almost 50% of pharmacists considered Arabic in health sciences education a cultural and/or practice necessity. In pharmacy undergraduate curricula, preferred topics to be taught in Arabic included counselling on complementary/alternative medicine (67.4%), management of cold/flu (65.5%), counselling on weight management (64.2%), communication in special situations (63.2%), vocabulary (63.2%) and listening and empathic responding (62.6%). For continuing education, topics included management of cold/flu (69.8%) and skin conditions (69.2%), counselling on smoking cessation (68.9%), communicating with physicians and other professionals (54.8%), communication in special situations (54.7%) and vocabulary (50.9%).ConclusionsFor all assessed topics and communication skills, more than half of the pharmacists agreed that they needed to be included in pharmacy education. A blended learning approach that combines integrated content for native language within an English curriculum could be explored.
Pharmaceutical care issues in lung cancer: can community pharmacists support patients receiving systemic anticancer therapy?
Authors: MacLean Fiona M , Boyter Anne C , Mullen Alexander B , Lowrie Richard 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Most patients receive systemic anticancer therapy (SACT) as day cases and toxicities, if they occur, are likely to appear first in primary care. Pharmaceutical care can be delivered by community pharmacists, but little is known about the epidemiology of SACT toxicities in the community and potential interventions to address these which raise the following questions: what are the typologies of SACT-associated toxicities experienced by community-based patients and what are the associated pharmaceutical care issues (PCIs)? The aim of this study was to identify toxicities and pharmaceutical care issues of patients prescribed SACT for lung cancer and understand the potential for community pharmacists to deliver aspects of cancer care including toxicity management.

Methods
Retrospective analysis of clinical records of patients prescribed oral and parenteral SACT in 2013–14, to describe patient characteristics; SACT toxicity; PCIs and episodes of unscheduled care.

Key findings
Twelve categories of toxicity and 13 categories of PCIs were identified from 50 patients. More PCIs were observed with oral SACT/oral-parenteral combinations than with parenteral regimens. The PCIs which could be managed by community pharmacists were mucositis; skin toxicity; gastrointestinal toxicity; reinforcing patient education and identification/prevention of drug interactions.

Conclusions
Community pharmacists are ideally placed to provide pharmaceutical care to patients with lung cancer prescribed SACT. Cancer specialists in secondary care can signpost patients to community pharmacists for early management of low-grade SACT toxicity.
The transition from hospital to home following acute coronary syndrome: an exploratory qualitative study of patient perceptions and early experiences in two countries
Authors: Crawshaw Jacob , Bartoli-Abdou John K , Weinman John , McRobbie Duncan , Stebbins Marilyn , Brock Tina , Auyeung Vivian 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Following acute coronary syndrome (ACS), it is standard practice for stable patients to be discharged as quickly as possible from hospital. If patients are not adequately supported at this time, issues such as readmission can occur. We report findings from an exploratory qualitative study investigating the perceptions and early experiences of patients transitioning from hospitals in the UK and USA to home following ACS.

Methods
Within 1 month of discharge, we conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with patients hospitalised for ACS (UK: n = 8; USA: n = 9). Data were analysed using the Framework Method.

Key findings
We identified four superordinate themes. Coping, adjustment and management: Patients were still adjusting to the physical limitations caused by their event but most had begun to implement positive lifestyle changes. Gaps in care transition: Poor communication and organisation postdischarge resulted in delayed follow-up for some patients causing considerable frustration. Quality of care from hospital to home: Patients experienced varied inpatient care quality but had largely positive interactions in primary/community care. Pharmacy input during care transition was viewed favourably in both countries. Medication-taking beliefs and behaviour: Patients reported good initial adherence to treatment but side effects were a concern.

Conclusions
ACS patients experienced gaps in care early in the transition from hospital to home. Poor communication and uncoordinated support postdischarge negatively impacted patient experience. Further research is needed to determine how patients’ early experiences following ACS can affect longer-term outcomes including healthcare engagement and treatment maintenance.
Australian community pharmacists’ perceptions of public health before the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hope Denise L , Day Georgie , Clements Joshua , Hattingh H Laetitia 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Consensus is lacking regarding delivery of public health services in community pharmacy.

Objective
The objective of this study was to explore pharmacists’ perspectives on public health initiatives in community practice.

Method
Australian community pharmacists were randomly sampled to participate in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews to explore public health definitions and perceptions.

Key findings
Nine pharmacists participated early 2020, pre-COVID-19. Mean interview duration was 23 min. Results revealed little distinction between individual and public health services. Barriers to service provision were lack of time, remuneration, training, standards and privacy. Enablers opposed barriers, namely accessibility, improved funding, education, standardised services and consulting rooms.

Conclusion
Improved clarity is required regarding the role that community pharmacists can assume in provision of public health.
Assessment of antimicrobial stewardship programs within governmental hospitals in Qatar: a SWOC analysis
Authors: Nasr Ziad G , Jibril Farah , Elmekaty Eman , Sonallah Hala , Chahine Elias B , AlNajjar Afnan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide public health issue that requires emergent action. Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) have been proposed as a strategy to minimise resistance. Although ASPs were implemented in governmental hospitals in Qatar since 2015, a formal evaluation of these programs has not been conducted. We aimed to assess the status of ASPs in Qatar and to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges (SWOC) to further enhance ASPs within Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).

Methods
Lead stakeholders of ASPs in HMC filled a questionnaire adapted from the 2019 Centers for Disease Control Prevention checklist for ASPs. Notes were taken by research team to assist in formulating a SWOC analysis.

Key findings
All hospitals (12/12) had an infectious diseases physician and pharmacist designated as an ASP leader (major strength identified). Almost all hospitals lack a financial statement and information technology resources to support ASPs (major weaknesses identified). Nine hospitals had an antibiotic pre-authorisation policy and adopted a prospective audit with feedback strategy. Among hospitals surveyed, 11 hospitals tracked antibiotic use by measuring the defined daily dose, and only four hospitals tracked rates of Clostridioides difficile infection. Qatar’s rich economy supports the allocation of financial resources and budgeting to improve ASPs despite the increased emergence of resistant organisms and the limited resources currently available to expand ASPs across the country’s healthcare settings.

Conclusions
Although ASPs were implemented in all governmental hospitals in Qatar, national efforts and more resources are needed to further develop and improve these programs.
Pharmacists’ views and desires regarding pharmacist administration of vaccines in New Zealand
Authors: Gauld Natalie , Johnstone Elizabeth , McMichael Ian , Braund Rhiannon 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
To explore pharmacists’ views and experiences of pharmacist-administered vaccinations, motivators and barriers to pharmacists administering vaccinations and their preferences for expansions to such services.

Methods
All practising pharmacist members (n = 3400) of the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand were invited to participate in an online survey in 2017.

Key findings
A total of 468 pharmacists completed the survey (14%). Most (86%) strongly agreed/agreed that pharmacists should provide vaccinations, primarily citing patient benefit, for example, convenience, potential for increased vaccination uptake, easing general practice burden and better utilisation of the pharmacist. Half had completed vaccinator training, mainly for professional satisfaction, to help public or community health and/or to provide a new service for their community. Trained pharmacists had administered influenza (95%), pertussis (47%), zoster (45%) and/or meningococcal vaccines (13%), with patient cost limiting some vaccination uptake. Cost or workplace constraints were leading reasons for the 17% not planning to undertake vaccinator training. Key barriers for pharmacy owners not offering vaccinations were set-up or other costs, insufficient funding (62%) or staffing/time concerns (27%). Some trained vaccinators (39%) wanted the recipient age lowered below 13 years, and 44% wanted intern pharmacists to be able to administer vaccinations.

Conclusion
This study found strong support for this service, including benefits for patients, and for customer relationships. Identified barriers including service setup and patient costs could be reduced by expanding the categories (e.g. pharmacy students and technicians) of staff able to vaccinate and having more government funded vaccines available through pharmacies, therefore, improving access for patients.
Role of pharmacists in the provision of palliative care services and support in South Africa
Authors: Inderlall R , Naidoo P 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectivesSouth Africa (SA) has high demand but inequitable access to palliative care (PC). Realising this need and the growing recognition of pharmacists’ in PC globally, a study was undertaken regarding the role of pharmacists in the provision of PC services and support in SA.MethodA descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 540 community and hospital pharmacists. A self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire covering knowledge, attitude, current role, future role and barriers to PC was used. Data was coded and analysed using SPSS® Version 24.0. P-values &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant.Key FindingsResponse rate was 48.7% (n = 263). Pharmacists (72.2%) were already playing a role in PC, however, only 20.5% reported frequent involvement in PC. Services provided included medicine supply (88.2%), side-effect/symptom management (82.1%), information sharing (60.8%), bereavement counselling (60.8%), treatment/care needs (57.4%) and spiritual support (52.1%). More pharmacists (96.6%) wanted to play a role in PC, beyond medicine supply to include PC team member (91.6%), medicine reviews (91.3%), referrals (80.2%) and patient visits (50.6%). Pharmacists had a good knowledge (71.4%) and a positive attitude (61.5%) towards PC despite many health system barriers such as lack of training (91.3%), inadequate clinical experience (90.5%) and insufficient resources (77.2%).ConclusionsPharmacists with their high level of knowledge, positive attitude and broad scope of practice are well-placed to play a role in PC. Further strengthening and integration of their roles into the continuum of care, will encourage the involvement of more pharmacists, enhancing availability, access and resources for PC.
The role of non-technical skills in community pharmacy practice: an exploratory review of the literature
Authors: Ashour Ahmed , Phipps Denham L , Ashcroft Darren M 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Non-technical skills (NTS) are the cognitive and social skills that complement technical skills in safe and efficient practice, and include leadership, teamwork, task management, decision-making and situation awareness. Other areas within healthcare have heavily invested in producing taxonomies to aid training and assessment of NTS within their disciplines, and have found them to be essential for improving patient safety. In pharmacy, no validated taxonomy has been produced, nor has the existing literature been appraised to aid the future development of a validated taxonomy.

Objective(s)
To examine the literature on NTS within a community pharmacy setting and establish the research conducted thus far on each NTS and how they are applied by community pharmacists.

Methods
A literature search of six electronic databases (EMBASE, PsychINFO, Medline, SCOPUS, CINAHL Plus and HMIC) using the generic list of NTS identified in previous studies. Only empirical studies were included. Examples of behaviours or skills were extracted and categorised within each NTS.

Key findings
Seventeen studies were identified that contained one or more examples of NTS specific to community pharmacy practice. Altogether, 16 elements were extracted. Four elements were identified within leadership and task management. A further three were identified within situation awareness and decision-making, and a final two within teamwork and communication.

Conclusion
A framework consisting of the skills and how they're applied has been presented which describe the NTS required by community pharmacists from the published literature. This framework can provide a foundation for further investigation into NTS use within pharmacy practice.
Pharmacy students’ attitude towards providing pharmaceutical care to patients with anxiety and their knowledge of psychotropic medicines in Jordan
Authors: Al Jomaa Esraa E , Abdel-Qader Derar H , Silverthorne Jennifer , Hamadi Salim , Al Meslamani Ahmad Z 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
To describe pharmacy students’ attitude towards providing pharmaceutical care (PC) to patients with anxiety and their knowledge of psychotropic medicines (PM).

Methods
A cross-sectional emailed survey was sent to all 200 pharmacy students (fourth and fifth year) in one Jordanian university. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and chi-square test.

Key findings
A total of 134 responses were received (response rate 67%). About two-thirds of students (87, 64.9%) would like to give enough time to patients with anxiety to discuss their medications. Only half of students knew correctly that alprazolam (53.7%) and diazepam (50.0%) are categorized as anxiolytics. Undertaking a course in psychiatry was significantly associated with better students’ knowledge in PM (P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusion
Despite positive attitudes towards providing PC to patients with anxiety, policy makers should include courses on psychiatric pharmacotherapy in pharmacy curricula to improve pharmacy students’ knowledge of PM.
The cardiology training needs of general practice-based pharmacists
Authors: Clarke Clodagh , Tennant Sheila , Greenlaw Nicola , Girvin Briegeen , Forsyth Paul 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
As the role of the general practice clinical pharmacist (GPCP) evolves, there has been a shift towards patient-facing roles across multiple conditions. This study aimed to measure the self-reported cardiology training needs of GPCPs.

Methods
An online survey was developed. Participants were shown a list of statements on cardiac conditions and medication across seven sub-domains. Participants self-reported their knowledge against each statement using a Likert Scale. Participants were considered to require training in that topic where they had ‘disagreed’, ‘strongly disagreed’ or expressed a ‘neutral’ rating in ≥3/7 areas. Participants were shown a list of single statements around cardiology test result knowledge and clinical assessment skills. Respondents who ‘disagreed’, ‘strongly disagreed’ or declared a ‘neutral’ position with the statement were judged to need training in that topic.

Key findings
Seventy-three out of 135 (54%) GPCPs responded. Acute coronary syndrome had the highest training requirement (38/73, 52%) within conditions. Fifty-nine out of 73 (81%) required training on sacubitril/valsartan and 57/73 (78%) with ivabradine. Fifty-four out of 73 (74%) and 44/73 (60%) required training on how to interpret natriuretic peptides and troponin, respectively. Fifty-nine out of 73 (81%), 48/73 (66%) and 55/73 (75%) required training on interpreting ECG, echocardiogram and coronary angiography, respectively. Reduced length of experience in general practice (&lt;2 years) was commonly associated with increased training needs.

Conclusions
There are areas of unmet cardiology training needs within GPCPs that require further support. As the GPCP role evolves, discussion is needed with national pharmacy stakeholders to decide how to incorporate this learning into routine training programmes.