Dike, Chinwe Nwakaego
College of Medicine University of Lagos, Nigeria
Title: Knowledge and practices of pharmaceutical waste management among Community Pharmacists in Lagos metropolis
Biography
Biography: Dike, Chinwe Nwakaego
Abstract
The fate of pharmaceutical waste becomes a growing concern as volumes of pharmaceuticals dispensed increases annually. Not only does pharmaceutical waste pose an environmental risk, it potentially poses a public health risk as well when it is not properly managed. The general objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and practices of Pharmaceutical waste management among Community Pharmacists in Lagos Metropolis. The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional study among Community Pharmacists practicing in different parts of Lagos Metropolis. The data was collected using pre-tested, structured, self and interviewer administered questionnaire. Stratified sampling method was used for selection of study subjects. Data was analyzed using Epi-Info statistical software version 7.1.5.2. Knowledge and practice responses were scored and graded as poor (˂50%) and good (≥50%). Mean age of the respondents was 44.5 ± 9.2 years. Majority of the respondents had good knowledge (78.2%), good reported practices (90.4%) but poor observed practices (66.9%) of pharmaceutical waste management. In the triangulation of knowledge, reported practices and observed practices of pharmaceutical waste management, the major challenge was in the observed practice component. There is therefore the need for the enforcement of pharmaceutical waste management practices by the relevant authorities.