Knowledge and Behaviors of Using Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs among Elderly in Thungfon District, Udonthani

Abstract

The purpose of this cross sectional survey research is to study on the level of knowledge and behaviors of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use and investigate factors related to the level of knowledge and behaviors of NSAIDs use among elderly in Thungfon district, Udonthani. Population was elderly in Thungfon district who stayed in Thungfon district, Udonthani between May-June 2017 with had history of NSAIDs usage. The fifty samples were purposive selected to participate while the tool of this research is questionnaires. The questionnaires consisted of personal information, knowledge and behaviors as using NSAIDs. An analysis on data of descriptive statistics and analysis on the relationship of variable factors relating to the level of knowledge and behaviors on NSAIDs usage by Chi-Square on SPSS version 16.

The results of the study showed that the majority of the respondents were 60-69 years (58%). The fair level on the knowledge of NSAIDs usage x(SD)=2.50(2.16) was found and the knowledge about correct time to take medication was high level (66%). The fair level of behaviors on NSAIDs usage was also found x(SD)=3.64(1.22) and behavior of rational NSAIDs use about take NSAIDs more than 2 types at the same time was the most rational usage (96%). Education level was significantly associated with the level of knowledge of NSAIDs usage (P<0.05).

According to the moderate level of knowledge and behaviors on NSAIDs usage, need for a more rational use of NSAIDs in elderly for safety and quality of life.