An overview of the experience of Iraqi COVID-19 patients, and the role of the pharmacists during their infection

• Nassar, Razan ^[1] ; Basheti, Iman A. ^[2] ; Ahmad, Alhareth ^[3] ; Al-Majmaie, Shaymaa ^[4] ; Awajan, Dima ^[6] ; Al-Alwany, Ruaa R. ^[6] ; Nassar, Ayman ^[5] ; Thiab, Samar ^[1]
  1. [1] Applied Science Private University

     Applied Science Private University

     Jordania

     
  2. [2] University of Sydney

     University of Sydney

     Australia

     
  3. [3] Al-Ahliyya Amman University

     Al-Ahliyya Amman University

     Jordania

     
  4. [4] University of Diyala

     University of Diyala

     Irak

     
  5. [5] Hashemite University

     Hashemite University

     Jordania

     
  6. [6] MSc, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.

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• Localización: Pharmacy Practice (Granada), ISSN-e 1886-3655, Vol. 22, Nº. 3, 2024 (Ejemplar dedicado a: Jul-Sep)
• Idioma: inglés
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  • Background: The global healthcare systems have faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacists have been frontline healthcare workers playing a pivotal role during this pandemic. This study aimed to understand the experiences of Iraqi COVID-19 patients and highlight the role of pharmacists during their infection. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted among the Iraqi public. Inclusion criteria comprised individuals residing in Iraq who had previously contracted COVID-19. The survey assessed demographic information, the COVID-19 experience of participants, and the role of pharmacists from the patient’s perspective. Results: Over 561 participants from various Iraqi cities responded. Most participants (43.5%) stated that their infection source was mainly contacting infected family or friends. About 40.0% of the participants required a specialist doctor visit during their infection, 5.9% required hospitalization, and 1.6% required admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Regarding herbal products, 42.8% of the study’s participants used herbs. Fatigue and fever were the most comely reported symptoms. Vitamin C and analgesics were the most used supplements/medications. Of the participants, 35.0% stated that they visited a pharmacy in person, while 31.2% contacted pharmacists through a third person. Nearly half of the respondents strongly agreed or agreed with the statements highlighting the proactive role of pharmacists in providing medical advice, prevention tips, medication instructions, and drug-to-drug interaction guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: The study highlights the significant role of pharmacists in Iraq during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing their importance in patient care, medication management, and delivering health advice. Collaborative efforts between pharmacists and other healthcare professionals can further optimize patient care during health crises.