Knowledge of community pharmacists on infantile hemangioma: gaps and lack confidence to deliver propranolol still need to be filled
Abstract
Abstract Aim To evaluate the knowledge, practices and self‐confidence of community pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy students about infantile haemangioma (IH) and propranolol treatment. Methods A national survey was conducted in France from May 2022 to October 2022. A 42‐item online questionnaire was used to assess pharmacists' knowledge of the epidemiology, clinical features and management of IH and propranolol treatment. Results The survey included 255 participants. The mean age was 34.9 years (±9.0); 225 (88%) were women. In all, 193 (76%) practised in urban pharmacies. Altogether, 83 participants (33%) had delivered oral propranolol solution for IH in the last 6 months. Participants' median score for self‐confidence regarding propranolol dispensing was five (interquartile range, 2.5–6) on a scale of 1 to 10. Overall, 96 (38%) had more than 50% correct answers on the questionnaire. Multinomial regression models showed high scores on the questionnaire associated with high self‐confidence when delivering oral propranolol solution, low number of years since graduation and having already delivered propranolol treatment. Conclusion This study highlights a lack of knowledge of IH and modalities of propranolol treatment by community pharmacists and slight self‐confidence when delivering propranolol. Greater cooperation between healthcare professionals could improve the proper use of medicine.