Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance has increased the worldwide threat of infectious disease. Strategies to curb the development of antimicrobial resistance include improving patient counseling and improving antibiotic regimen adherence. The purpose of this study was to develop educational materials (job aids) to enhance parental compliance with antibiotic regimens for the treatment of pneumonia in children in Niger. Methodology: A qualitative methodology was used to assess parental knowledge of respiratory infection. Observation of health center activities included patient counseling, counseling materials, and the number and duration of antibiotic stock outs. The findings were presented in a workshop for Ministry of Health personnel in Niger. The educational materials developed were a counseling card and poster for health workers and a medication envelope with images for mothers. Draft mock-ups were tested, modified and retested. Results: Although most women understood the antibiotic regimen when leaving the health center only half could recall the correct information 2 days later during a home visit. Both women and men thought that Cotrimaxazole was a very effective way to treat pneumonia, however traditional remedies were also used. Women were dependent on men to provide for the cost of a clinic visit and /or medication for their children. Health workers often did not counsel on how to administer the antibiotic nor verify the mother’s comprehension of their advice. Conclusions: Key messages on adherence with an antibiotic regimen can be conveyed to women through images and through their reinforcement with verbal messages from health workers.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the presentation, the participants wll be able to identify strategies to increase adherence to an antibiotic regimen.
Keywords: Antibiotic Resistance, Health Education Strategies
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.