An Evaluation Of Knowledge And Perception Amongst Nursing Students Pertaining To Ibuprofen

Abstract

Ibuprofen is one of the most common over-the-counter pain medications accessible to consumers. It is known that ibuprofen can be dangerous to certain individuals (Curfman, 2015). This includes people who take this drug over prolonged periods of time, those who do not follow the necessary instructions/precautions, who may have heart disease or gastrointestinal complications, and others who may be at high risk for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. A 16-item questionnaire was developed to assess: a) how and when the decision is made to take pain medication, b) knowledge of recommendations and precautions related to the use of ibuprofen, c) how the decision is made to determine the amount of medication to take, and d) knowledge of potentially dangerous side effects. The data of this survey showed that a majority of nursing students knew critical components to proper use of ibuprofen. It also demonstrated upperclassmen students to contain more knowledge regarding ibuprofen dosaging than underclassmen. Although there were important educational points that students knew pertaining to ibuprofen, there were also gaps in the necessary knowledge that the survey indicated. With appropriate education and teaching of this common over-the-counter medication, it can decrease the risk for potentially dangerous complications in certain individuals. Due to this drug being so widely used and easily accessible, preventing improper use is essential for protecting our communities.