Rational drug use and health literacy level of patients who applied to the emergency department

Background and Aim: Rational drug use and health literacy levels are critical factors that directly influence the protection of individuals' health, the effectiveness of treatment processes, and the sustainability of healthcare services. These factors, which significantly impact patient admissions to healthcare facilities, particularly emergency departments, are essential for ensuring the efficiency of healthcare services. This study aims to evaluate the health literacy levels and rational drug use practices of patients presenting to the emergency department with various complaints. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted with 138 patients who presented to the emergency department of a state hospital between May 1, 2022, and November 1, 2022. Data were collected using the 'Demographic Information Form,' the 'Health Literacy Scale,' and the 'Rational Drug Use Scale.' The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods and comparative analyses in SPSS 22.0 software Results: The mean age of the patients included in the study was 38.62 ± 13.87 years, with 63% were female. The patients demonstrated high levels of rational drug use and health literacy. Patients who were single, had higher education levels, or visited the emergency department due to accidents or injuries had higher health literacy levels, while those without health-related education had lower levels (p<0.05). Patients who used medications regularly, adhered to their medication schedules, and avoided using over-the-counter medications demonstrated higher levels of rational drug use. Patients who did not have a chronic disease, understood the purpose of their medications, refrained from using over-the-counter drugs, and checked the expiration dates of their medications demonstrated higher health literacy levels (p<0.005). A statistically significant, low positive correlation was found between patients' health literacy levels and rational drug use levels. Furthermore, a statistically significant, low negative correlation was observed between patients' age and health literacy levels (p<0.005). Conclusion: This study found that health literacy and rational drug use levels were high among patients presenting to the emergency department. As patients' health literacy levels increased, their rational drug use levels also improved. Additionally, it was observed that health literacy levels decreased with increasing age. Future research should involve larger sample sizes, and it is recommended that educational programs and projects be developed to enhance health literacy levels and rational drug use practices.