The effect of an intervention program on the knowledge and attitudes among medical staff regarding adverse drug reaction reporting.

Purpose: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a growing important public health problem; however, underreporting of ADRs is very common. The aim of the current study was to explore the effect of an intervention program on the knowledge and attitudes among physicians and nurses regarding ADRs reporting.

Methods: A multicentre study consisted of three phases: filling out a questionnaire; an intervention program; filling out the same questionnaire again. The intervention program consisted of posters, lectures, and distant electronic learning. The questionnaire contained questions about personal/professional demographic variables, and statements regarding knowledge and attitudes regarding ADR reporting.

Results: The data revealed that the intervention program significantly elevated the "Objective knowledge" (P < 0.01) and "Practical knowledge" (P < 0.02) score as compared to the control group, while no significant differences were found regarding "Acquired knowledge" (P = 0.14). Seniority (P = 0.01) and experience in internal medicine (P = 0.05) were demonstrated as significant factors determining the knowledge of the staff. Obligation was the main motive for reporting in 80% of participants. After the intervention, no differences were found in the "Attitude related to the motive for reporting" or "Attitude related to the commitment to report", between the two groups. However, "Attitude related to the need to report" score significantly improved after the intervention (P = 0.04).

Conclusions: The intervention program increased knowledge and attitudes regarding ADRs reports. Seniority had the most effect on the influence of the intervention program. The data from this study encourages the necessity to hold ongoing intervention programs in order to improve ADRs reporting rate.