A RETROSPECTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF PRESCRIPTION PATTERN IN SECONDARY CARE HOSPITAL IN VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS

  • Unique Paper ID: 164045
  • Volume: 10
  • Issue: 12
  • PageNo: 233-242
  • Abstract:
  • Background: Understanding prescription patterns in secondary care hospitals is crucial for optimizing patient treatment outcomes and ensuring efficient resource utilization. This retrospective cross-sectional study aims to analyze prescription patterns within secondary care hospital settings to identify potential areas for improvement. Methods: Retrospective analysis was done on a secondary care hospital's electronic health data for a predetermined time. Prescription information was retrieved and examined, including drug names, dosages, and frequencies. Parameters like patient demographics, the method of administration, the medication given based on the classification, the quantity of both branded and generic drugs used, the use of FDC and single medications, and the use of essential drugs concerning WHO Prescribing Indicators. Results: Out of 150 patients, demographic details showed more male participants, the most common administration route was intravenous, followed by oral. Ondansetron, Pantoprazole, and Ceftriaxone were the most frequently prescribed drugs. Antibiotics were the most commonly prescribed drug class. There were equal numbers of generic and branded drugs prescribed, with 10 fixed-dose combination drugs. About 26% of drugs were from the essential drug list. The average number of drugs per patient encounter was 2.54, with 39.33% prescribed by generic names. Antibiotics were prescribed in 77.33% of patient encounters, and injections in 22%. Conclusion: This study highlights the complexity of prescription patterns in secondary care hospitals and emphasizes the importance of optimizing prescribing practices. Interventions targeting polypharmacy reduction, adherence to clinical guidelines, and appropriate antibiotic usage are warranted to improve patient outcomes and resource utilization in secondary care settings.

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