@misc{10498/36433,
year = {2025},
url = {http://hdl.handle.net/10498/36433},
abstract = {(1) Background: Self-medication, defined as the use of medications without professional supervision, is a common practice that presents both potential benefits and significant risks. This study analyzes the prevalence, patterns, and determinants of self-medication among health professionals in Spain. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed with 438 health professionals, predominantly women (81.1%), with a median age of 42 years. The majority of the healthcare workers were nurses (45%). (3) Results: The results revealed a high prevalence of self-medication (59.4%). Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs were the most commonly used. Age and professional knowledge emerged as significant factors influencing this behavior. The main reasons for self-medication included the mildness of symptoms, easy access to medications, and previous successful experiences. Digital sources, especially websites, were the most consulted. Confidence in artificial intelligence tools as a clinical resource was moderate, with 18% of participants consulting AI tools, a rate comparable to the 19.5% for scientific databases. Logistic regression analysis identified age, knowledge of recommended doses, and perceived efficacy as significant predictors, while concern about risks acted as a protective factor. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the need for educational interventions aimed at promoting responsible self-medication practices and mitigating associated risks among healthcare professionals.},
publisher = {Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)},
keywords = {attitude},
keywords = {health professionals},
keywords = {perceived efficacy},
keywords = {self-medication},
title = {Self-Medication Practice and Associated Factors Among Health Professionals in Spain},
doi = {10.3390/nursrep15020053},
author = {Cotobal Calvo, E.M. and Mata Pérez, Concepción and Bocchino, Anna and Gilart Cantizano, Ester and Gutierrez Baena, Belén and Palazón-Fernández, José Luis},
}