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To address the reasons for it is important to understand the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of all pertinent stakeholders. This multicentrrising burden of Diabetes mellitus in India this survey is aimed at understanding the KAP quotients of the community regarding knowledge of laypersons regarding diabetes mellitus as this is lacking in Indian studies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted through online mode in India using a validated, field-tested questionnaire incorporating KAP domain questions regarding Diabetes mellitus (DM). Scores to questions were appropriately assigned. The mean (SD) age of the respondents was 35.2 (12.61) y and 62% had a graduate or higher level of education. The median (IQR) KAP scores were 10 (8-12), 5 (3-5) and 2 (2-3) out of a maximum of 18, 5 and 6, respectively. Higher educational and socioeconomic levels were associated with better attitude scores, but knowledge levels were comparable. Correlations between KAP scores were poor. This study reveals that laypeople have appropriate knowledge and attitude regarding diabetes mellitus to some degree but there are important lacunae and practices are often found wanting. These issues need to be addressed in sustained public sensitization and motivational campaigns to improve the future and treatment outcomes of Diabetes mellitus in India.

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Background: Medication errors are a reality in all settings where medicines are prescribed, dispensed and used. High Alert Medications (HAM) are those that bear a heightened risk of causing significant harm to the patient, if used erroneously. Though mishaps with HAM may not be more common than with other drugs, the consequences of error with them can be especially serious. We conducted a survey on knowledge, attitude and practice, among residents working in a teaching hospital, to assess the ground situation regarding HAM awareness and handling. Methods: We approached 492 residents among the approximately 600 residents currently working through purposive sampling. Residents in all disciplines (clinical, paraclinical and preclinical) were targeted. A structured questionnaire with 54 questions, pilot-tested on 20 volunteer residents, was used for data collection. The questionnaire was administered to residents through face-to-face interview, by two raters, while they were on duty, but not during rush hours. Results: Of the total 261 responses received, 32.33% respondents correctly defined or explained the meaning of the term ‘medication error’. Knowledge regarding difference between medication error and adverse event did not get reflected in 68.38% of the participants, and only 16.86% were able to name relevant group of medicines as HAM. Regarding attitude in dealing with HAM, majority believed that taking the history of drug allergy and reconciling all prescription and over the counter (OTC) drugs already being used before prescribing or using a medicine, is important. In practice, most respondents followed protocols, but not routinely. Several potential errors in practice were identified. Conclusion: The current situation requires corrective action. There is an urgent need for improving awareness regarding HAM for the sake of patient safety. The pharmacology department can take the lead in designing awareness campaign with support from the hospital administration.