Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Self-Medication for Sore Throat Among Medical Students of Nepalgunj Medical College, Banke, Nepal

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: Self-medication for minor problems like sore throat is very common, especially among medical students who can easily get medicines and have basic medical knowledge. Although it may show confidence in their own judgment, using medicines without proper guidance can cause problems such as antibiotic resistance and masking of serious illnesses. To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of self-medication for sore throat among undergraduate medical students of Nepalgunj Medical College, Banke, Nepal.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1^st May 2018 to 30^th April 2019 among 263 MBBS students using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The tool consisted of 30 items divided into three sections: knowledge (10), attitude (10), and practice (10). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square  tests.

Results: Among 263 respondents, 150 (57.0%) were male and 113 (42.9%) female with a mean age of 21.9 ± 1.8 years. Overall, 74.5% had good knowledge, 47.5% showed a positive attitude toward rational self-medication, and 37.2% had appropriate practices for sore throat. The most commonly used drugs were paracetamol (69.9%), antihistamines (53.8%) NSAIDS and Paracetamol combination (39.3%), Antibiotics (34.9%) and Menthol (31.5%). Major reasons for self-medication were mild symptoms (63.5%), feeling of sufficient knowledge (7.7%). and previous experience of relief (7.7%). There was a positive correlation between all three domains of competency, however only knowledge and attitude have significant correlation. (p<0.03)

Conclusion: Most medical students at Nepalgunj Medical College possessed good knowledge and a positive attitude toward responsible self-medication. However, inappropriate practice of self-medication and especially antibiotic use is a concern.

Keywords: KAP study, Self-medication, Sore throat,