The prevalence and characterization of self-medication for obtaining pain relief among undergraduate nursing students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-11692011000200004Keywords:
Pain, Self Medication, Students, NursingAbstract
This study investigates the prevalence of self-medication among undergraduate nursing students seeking to relieve pain and characterizes the pain and relief obtained through the used medication. This epidemiological and cross-sectional study was carried out with 211 nursing students from a public university in Goiás, GO, Brazil. A numerical scale (0-10) measured pain intensity and relief. The prevalence of self-medication was 38.8%. The source and main determining factor of this practice were the student him/herself (54.1%) and lack of time to go to a doctor (50%), respectively. The most frequently used analgesic was dipyrone (59.8%) and pain relief was classified as good (Md=8.5;Max=10;Min=0). The prevalence of self-medication was higher than that observed in similar studies. Many students reported that relief obtained through self-medication was good, a fact that can delay the clarification of a diagnosis and its appropriate treatment.Downloads
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Published
2011-04-01
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Original Articles
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How to Cite
The prevalence and characterization of self-medication for obtaining pain relief among undergraduate nursing students . (2011). Revista Latino-Americana De Enfermagem, 19(2), 245-251. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-11692011000200004