Implementation of an Osteoporosis Education Program in Assisted Living Facilities: A Survey Analysis of Student Pharmacists Confidence Levels

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of an education program in regards to pharmacy students’ knowledge and confidence regarding osteoporosis management. METHODS: This was a pretest/posttest study of data obtained through surveys given to pharmacy students’ at the Phoenix and Tucson campuses. The education program administered was generated by the Arizona Osteoporosis Coalition. RESULTS: A total of 19 pharmacy students were surveyed in Tucson and Phoenix, AZ. When the knowledge questions were analyzed (questions 1 through 7), the t-score obtained was 4.7914 (p<0.05). This score was larger than the t-critical value for a 95% confidence interval. When the confidence questions were analyzed (questions 8 through 10), the t-scores obtained were 0.6849, 0.5945, and 0.2287, respectively. These scores did not reach statistical significance (p>0.05). The intervention proved to increase knowledge but did not increase confidence. CONCLUSIONS: The education program on osteoporosis management increased pharmacy students’ knowledge on this disease state. Other education programs targeting various disease states may also increase students knowledge, further preparing them to provide quality patient care.