Evaluation of the adverse drug reaction surveillance system Kadoma City, Zimbabwe 2015

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: medicines have the potential to cause adverse drug reactions and because of this Zimbabwe monitor reactions to medicines through the Adverse Drug Reaction Surveillance System. The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe monitors reactions to medicines through the Adverse Drugs Reactions Surveillance System. The system relies on health professionals to report adverse drug reactions to maximize patient safety. We report results of an evaluation of the Adverse Drugs Reactions Surveillance System in Kadoma District. METHODS: a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using the updated CDC guidelines in six health facilities in Kadoma City. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer administered questionnaire, checklists and records review. Data was analyzed using Epi InfoTM to calculate frequencies and means. Qualitative data were analyzed manually. Written informed consent was obtained from all study participants.

Keywords

• adverse drug reactions
• surveillance system
• kadoma
• zimbabwe