The package barrier to user adherence: Comparative analysis of various types of opening instructions on the ease of opening comprising effectiveness, efficiency and user satisfaction. Issue 10 (19th August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Braun‐Münker, Myriam; Kahriman, Bakiye; Ecker, Felix
• Is Part Of: British journal of clinical pharmacology. Volume 86:Issue 10(2020)
• Page Start: 1982
• Page End: 1988
• Publication Date: 2019-08-19
• Subjects: ease of opening -- drug packaging -- instructional films and videos -- opening instructions -- user care management; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14060
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-5251

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: Adequate user access to drug therapy can only be ensured when the drug can be removed from its package. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a variety of opening instructions on the ease of opening a user package and user satisfaction. Methods: This experiment was conducted according to CEN/TS 15945. Ease of opening was defined as the ability to open a package within a defined time frame (effectiveness) and the learning effect by repeated opening (efficiency). (Dis)satisfaction ranged from −2 to +2. Empty bottles with left threat screw caps (rather than the standard right) were studied following 4 different types of instructions: none, arrow in the screw cap, package leaflet, video. Each instruction was studied in a group of 20 different healthy older adult volunteers (65–80 years). No opening aid was permitted. Data were captured in forms and on video. Results: Nine (45%) participants could open the package without any instruction, 19 (95%) with an arrow marked bottle and 20 (100%) with a package leaflet or video. No notable differences were observed in median times for first and repeated opening. Participants were most often ( n = 11) dissatisfied (score −2) without any instruction and neutral to most satisfied (0–2) with a video ( n = 17). Conclusion: The effectiveness, efficiency and user satisfaction to open a package is strongly influenced by the type of opening instruction. This conclusion requires further consideration in drug product packaging and labelling.