Evaluation of various ways to deliver information concerning non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to osteoarthritis patients.

Abstract Introduction It is essential to provide complete information to patients using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because of the risk of side effects. Today, most healthcare professionals recommend and privilege oral information regarding NSAIDs. Objective Evaluate the impact of three standardized NSAIDs information-delivery modalities on knowledge, anxiety and satisfaction of patients hospitalized in a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation unit for debilitating and degenerative locomotor diseases. Method Randomized prospective study with an alternate month design. Two control groups were provided with only one type of information modality: written (information sheet) or oral (presentation). The intervention group received both modalities of information. The information included: the definition of NSAIDs, advantages and side effects, and practical advice regarding proper use. The main evaluation criterion was knowledge progression assessed by a specific questionnaire. Secondary criteria were anxiety evolution (STAI-Y questionnaire) and satisfaction related to the information delivered. Results One hundred and forty patients were included. Knowledge was improved in the three groups, with a greater score improvement in the group that received both modalities ( P  = 0.05). No intergroup difference was noted on anxiety or satisfaction. Discussion and conclusion Associating both information-delivery modalities (written + oral) contributes to improving knowledge but does not seem to have an impact on the anxiety of patients treated with NSAIDs for their degenerative locomotor disease. Using standardized information sheets with a validated content could help pharmacists in their role as healthcare education provider and effectively complement the information delivered orally.