ABSTRACT
<b>Objective: </b>The purpose of this study was to identify existing problems related to the provision of drug information in clinical clerkships. In addition, we aimed to develop a self-learning tool based on our findings.<br><b>Methods: </b>We conducted a questionnaire survey on students who had completed a clinical clerkship between December 2012 and February 2013 concerning the actual status of the provision of drug information. Based on responses received from 86 students, we then developed an online self-learning tool. This online tool was subsequently evaluated by the same 86 students.<br><b>Results: </b>More than 20% of students surveyed reported never having made inquiries at their clerkship site; therefore, we developed an online self-learning tool for inquiry services in which students were able to learn step-by-step how to analyze, search, evaluate and provide inquiries. A total of 89% of the students who tried this tool reported being satisfied with its use.<br><b>Conclusion: </b>Our results suggest that students in clinical clerkships lack sufficient experience regarding drug information-related inquiries. Therefore, our online self-learning tool should be helpful in promoting understanding of how to manage such inquiries for students in clinical clerkships.
ABSTRACT
<b>Objective: </b>In pharmacy school, most faculty members use generic names when discussing medicine; however, in clinical clerkships, most staff members use brand names. This sometimes leads to poor communication and understanding between the students and medical staff. The purpose of this study was to clarify the need for a tool to improve communication and understanding in relation to drug information. Based on the findings of this survey, our secondary aim was to develop and subsequently evaluate such a tool.<br><b>Methods: </b>To clarify the need for a self-learning tool, we conducted a questionnaire survey on 58 faculty members who teach courses on drug informatics. Based on their responses, we then developed a self-learning tool that was subsequently evaluated by a total of 78 undergraduate students.<br><b>Results: </b>Most of the faculty agreed concerning the necessity of a self-learning tool for drug information, particularly in regard to the establishment of a more user-friendly system and reduced user fees for students. The faculty also believed that students should be able to associate the generic drug name with various kinds of information, including its safety, efficacy, and brand name. All students agreed that the tool was helpful, very easy to use, and could be learned during their commute to school.<br><b>Conclusion: </b>Our results suggest that most faculty members support the idea of having a tool capable of promoting a better understanding and grasp of drug information. Therefore, our self-learning tool should be helpful in promoting increased knowledge concerning drug information for students in clinical clerkships.