Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of residents and specialists working in tertiary healthcare institutions about drug allergy

Abstract

Aims: We evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of residents and specialists working in tertiary healthcare institutions about drug allergy. Methods: Residents and specialist medical doctors working at a tertiary health institution were included in the study. A questionnaire consisting of questions evaluating occupational and demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about drug allergy was prepared and administered to the participants. Result: Only 26 (21.3%) of the participants had attended any training on drug allergies. Of the participants, 73 (59.8%) felt competent in taking and interpreting an accurate allergy history for drugs. Of the participants, 107 (87.7%) knew that it is often impossible to reach a definite conclusion about drug allergy based on anamnesis alone. Only half of the participants stated that they could spare enough time for detailed anamnesis about drug allergy in their daily practice. Only 19 (15.6%) of the participants stated that they referred patients with suspected drug allergies to an allergist at a rate of 90-100%. When the answers of the assistant and specialists were compared;the proportion of respondents to the question of the most important drug classes responsible for allergic reactions, including antibiotics and aspirin/other NSAIDs (28.9% vs. 67.7%;p<.001). And the rate of those who responded corticosteroids+antihistamines+adrenaline to the question of the most recommended drug classes to treat drug allergies was found to be higher in specialist physicians (19.8% vs. 71%;p<.001). Conclusion: This cross-sectional study showed a low level of awareness, knowledge, and competency in the management of drug allergies among residents and specialists from different fields.