Mental health nurses' confidence in applying pharmacological knowledge: a survey

Abstract

The literature highlights gaps on how nurses apply pharmacology knowledge to their medication management, particularly in relation to knowledge on the mechanism of action and drug interactions. The aim of this study was to research a sample of mental health nurses to explore their confidence, knowledge and skills in applying their pharmacological knowledge.A paper-based survey questionnaire was distributed to 209 mental health nurses working in direct patient care in Ireland. A total of 129 completed the questionnaire with a response rate of 61.7%.The vast majority of mental health nurses were confident in their knowledge of pharmacological principles to medication management, in relation to dosage, formulation, adverse effects, and predictable side effects, including patient education and medication information. Nurses were less confident in their knowledge of pharmacodynamics related to their knowledge on the mechanism of action, and on the pharmacokinetics of drug clearance. This may negatively impact on their ability to educate patients about their medications.The findings suggest that there is need for an increased focus on continuing education on pharmacology for nurses at service level, particularly on the mechanism of action and clearance of commonly used medications in order for nurses to more effectively support patients to manage their medications.