Use of Complementary and Alternative Drugs in Preoperative Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Ersilia Lucenteforte, Eugenia Gallo, Alessandra Pugi, Federica Giommoni, Angelica Paoletti, Michele Vietri, Patrizia Lupi, Maristella La Torre, Gianluca Diddi, Fabio Firenzuoli, Alessandro Mugelli, Alfredo Vannacci, Francesco Lapi
Primary Institution: University of Florence
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and predictors of complementary and alternative drugs (CADs) use among preoperative patients in Italy?
Conclusion
The study found that 49.8% of preoperative patients used complementary and alternative drugs, with higher usage among older and more educated individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- 49.8% of preoperative patients reported using complementary and alternative drugs.
- Valeriana officinalis was the most commonly used product at 19.4%.
- Older patients (70-95 years) had a 3.0 odds ratio for CADs use compared to younger patients (18-47 years).
- Patients with higher education levels were more likely to use CADs.
Takeaway
Almost half of the patients getting ready for surgery in Italy use natural remedies, which can sometimes cause problems with other medications.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire administered by trained nurses during preoperative evaluations.
Potential Biases
Self-reporting may introduce bias in the accuracy of CADs usage data.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may lead to under- or overestimation of CADs use, and did not assess clinical outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Participants were mainly female (57.7%), with a significant portion having low education levels and a high percentage being homemakers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.3–3.3 for age 48–69 years; 95% CI: 1.9–4.7 for age 70–95 years
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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