A survey of prescription label preferences among community pharmacy patrons

Abstract

Fifty-five randomly selected community pharmacy patrons were surveyed regarding their preferences between four different prescription labels. The variables displayed on the four labels were: (i) laser printed, (ii) dot-matrix printed, (iii) glossy surface, and (iv) matt surface. The study population was stratified by age and gender. Statistical analysis of the results indicated a clear preference by all groups for the laser printed labels (P less than 0.001), and the only other statistically significant finding was the preference for the matt surface (P less than 0.05) of females between the ages of 16 and 39. The implications for these differences on label readability are discussed, and recommendations are offered for the use of improved laser technology for computer-generated prescription labels.

Taking a shine to it: How the preference for glossy stems from an innate need for water

“…First, from a functional perspective, the preference for glossy might be reduced as it interferes with readability. For instance, a survey of prescription label preferences among community pharmacy patrons revealed that a glossy surface is not recommended since it makes the label less legible (Luscombe, Jinks, & Duncan, 1992). Similarly, given the fact that gloss is the shiny surface appearance created when light is reflected from that surface (e.g., Hunter, 1975; Obein, Knoblauch, & Viénot, 2004; Smith, 1999), it is unclear whether a glossy surface finish would still be preferred in conditions of under‐ or overexposure of light.…”

Key components of intravenous chemotherapy labeling: A systematic review and practice guideline

“…Finally, one study looked at printer style and print finish of general pharmacy labels. 27 Again, although this study was conducted on non-health care professionals, there is no evidence to suggest that it cannot be generalized to the health professional community. In this study, all groups preferred laser-generated labels to dot matrix printer labels.…”

“…In total, 21 documents met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review. 4,[8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27]…”

“…One study 27 was found that looked at the type of printer general pharmacy clients preferred (labels generated from dot matrix vs. laser printers) as well as the print finish (matte vs. glossy) that was preferred. A survey was completed in which pharmacy patrons (N ¼ 55) were asked to rate four labels that all contained the same content but that differed on the type of print and label surface finish.…”