Impact of pharmacists’ counseling on caregiver's knowledge in the management of pediatric atopic dermatitis

• Published in: Pediatric dermatology Vol. 36; no. 1; pp. 105 - 109
• Main Authors: Cheong, Jing Yi Vanessa, Hie, Szu Liang, Koh, En Wei, Souza, Nurun Nisa Amatullah, Koh, Mark Jean‐Aan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01-01-2019
• Subjects: Atopic dermatitis; Caregivers; Children; Counseling services; Demography; Dermatitis; Disease management; Eczema; health care delivery; Knowledge; Pediatrics; Pharmacists; Skin; Skin diseases; eczema; atopic dermatitis; health care delivery
• ISSN: 0736-8046; 1525-1470
• DOI: 10.1111/pde.13708

Background
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin condition in childhood. AD management can be complex, and caregivers may have inadequate information on the disease, aggravating factors, and management. Comprehensive therapeutic education has been closely associated with increased compliance and is recommended for all patients. There are, as yet, no studies on the impact of a pharmacist‐led eczema counseling service.
Objectives
The primary objective was to assess the impact of a pharmacist‐led eczema counseling service on improving caregivers’ knowledge. The secondary objective was to evaluate caregivers’ satisfaction of the service and their confidence in handling the patient's condition after counseling.
Methods
This was a prospective, questionnaire‐based observational study. After obtaining informed consent, caregivers were required to complete questionnaire A, containing items on demographics and knowledge assessment. Caregivers then underwent a counseling session by a dermatology‐trained pharmacist. After counseling, caregivers were required to complete questionnaire B containing items on satisfaction and confidence level. A follow‐up phone call was conducted after initial counseling session, during which knowledge‐based questionnaire C would be completed.
Results
Data from 32 participants were included in the analysis. There was a significant improvement in caregivers’ knowledge score after receiving counseling, with mean precounseling score of 8.38 ± 3.92 and mean postcounseling score of 13.88 ± 3.65 (P < 0.001). Majority was satisfied with the service and was confident in handling their child's condition.
Conclusion
Pharmacist‐led eczema counseling has a positive impact on caregiver's knowledge and can lead to improved compliance. The service was well received, although more time could be spent during the counseling.