Evaluation of Patient Understanding of Dosage Instructions for Oral Liquid Medicines in Paediatric Practice in Kebbi State

Errors in measuring and administering oral liquid medicines to children are common household events that can result in serious harm. This study evaluated caregiver understanding of dosage instructions and measuring practices for oral liquid paediatric medicines in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the paediatric outpatient pharmacy of a general hospital among 200 caregivers collecting oral liquid medicines for children under 12 years. The questionnaire and practical observation assessed ability to interpret written dosage instructions, measuring device used (household spoon versus graduated measuring device), conversion of weight-based doses, and understanding of dose frequency and duration. Results showed that 42.0 percent of caregivers used household teaspoons rather than calibrated measuring devices, a practice associated with dose variability of up to 80 percent. Correct dose interpretation from the label was demonstrated by only 51.5 percent of caregivers. Ability to correctly calculate a weight-based dose was adequate in only 28.0 percent when label instructions included milligrams per kilogram instructions. Dose frequency misinterpretation was identified in 38.0 percent of cases, predominantly confusing twice daily with every 12 hours. Maternal education level was a significant predictor of correct dose preparation. The study recommends provision of calibrated measuring devices at dispensing, use of pictorial dosing guides, and pharmacist demonstration as standard practice for all paediatric oral liquid medicine dispensing in Kebbi State hospitals.

Keywords: oral liquid medicines, paediatric dosing, caregiver understanding, Kebbi State, dosing errors