PREVALENCE OF SELF-MEDICATION & ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG NURSING STUDENTS IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN “A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/pakmcr1418Keywords:
Self-medication, Nursing students, Prevalence Healthcare behavior, Drug utilizationAbstract
Background
Self-medication is a common public health issue worldwide, particularly among healthcare students who possess Nursing knowledge and easy access to medications. Inappropriate self-medication may lead to adverse drug reactions, delayed diagnosis, antimicrobial resistance, and increased healthcare burden.
Aim of the Study
The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of self-medication among Nursing students in Karachi Pakistan.
Methods
A Descriptive Cross-Sectional study was conducted among nursing students enrolled in Generic BSN and Post-RN BSN programs at Allied Institute of Nursing & Health Sciences Karachi Pakistan. A total of 184 students participated in the quantitative phase through convenient sampling; Data was collected using an adopted and validated questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results
The prevalence of self-medication was 95.3%. Headache (40.2%) and fever (32.5%) were the most common symptoms leading to self-medication. Antipyretics (31.9%) and analgesics (28.4%) were the most frequently used medications. Saving time (26.0%), distance from healthcare facilities (16.6%), and high consultation fees (14.2%) were major reasons for self-medication. Pharmacies (73.9%) were the primary source of medication procurement. Findings revealed that prior experience, confidence in managing minor illnesses, easy access to medicines, and cost-effectiveness were the major contributors to self-medication practices.
Conclusion
Self-medication was highly prevalent among nursing students. Educational interventions, stricter pharmacy regulations, and improved healthcare accessibility are necessary to promote responsible medication use.
