Knowledge and Understanding of Basic Prescription Instructions
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Communication from the HCW is crucial in conveying basic instructions about which drug has been prescribed and is to be obtained as well as the frequency and duration of the course.There are many possible reasons for ineffective communication that leaves the patient confused. Consequently, patients may take medicine with an incorrect dose, duration, or frequency, when parts of the prescription instructions are missing from the dialogue because the HCW cannot communicate in a language that the patient understands well or because the patient is elderly, has a low education level or is illiterate, or has difficulty comprehending what is spoken to them.Attitudes and manners of HCWs, patients, and carers impact the ability to successfully communicate and influence a 2-way dialogue allowing questions, and clarity, from the patient. Noticeably in Burkina Faso, patients arrive to consultations stressed. Attitudes and approaches of the HCW are essential to reduce this stress to ensure that the prescription information is taken on board.Communication is supported when both HCWs’ and patients’ attitudes are respectful and positive, when information is communicated using pictures and images, when there is a caregiver or family support person present to hear the prescription instructions, when information is written down in a way that can be referred to later, and when an appropriate language is used.The training and communication packages developed in the study introduced consistency in communication messages and practices to address these factors.The amount of time the HCWs have for consultation and communication is essential, as is the division of roles between HCWs and pharmacists in health centers (see section ‘High workload, short consultation time, and impact on communication’ below). Outside of a trial setting, it would seem that investment to reduce high HCW workload and expand available time for consultation will be needed to realize these benefits.