A study to assess the efficacy of Information Booklet on knowledge regarding adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs among care takers of mentally ill patients admitted in selected hospitals of Vidharbha region, Maharashtra

Introduction: Antipsychotic drugs, including first-generation (FGAs) and second-generation (SGAs), are commonly used to treat psychiatric disorders. FGAs, introduced in the 1950s, can cause extrapyramidal symptoms and other side effects, while SGAs, developed in the 1980s, have a lower risk of motor issues but may lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other metabolic concerns. Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients and caregivers about the medications' effects, ensuring proper usage, and monitoring side effects to enhance therapeutic outcomes. The present study title: A study to assess the efficacy of Information Booklet on knowledge regarding adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs among care takers of mentally ill patients admitted in selected hospitals of Vidharbha region, Maharashtra. The objective was assessing the efficacy of Information Booklet on knowledge regarding adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs among caretakers of mentally ill patients. Material and Methods: This descriptive study involved 60 caretakers of mentally ill patients using non-probability convenient sampling. A structured, expert-validated questionnaire with test-retest reliability was employed. Result: The study found a significant improvement in the knowledge of caretakers regarding the adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs after using the information booklet. The pre-test and post-test scores showed a marked increase, with a calculated Z value of 27.61 (p<0.05), indicating the booklet's effectiveness. Thus, the null hypothesis was rejected, and the hypothesis that the booklet enhances knowledge was accepted. Conclusion: The study concluded that the information booklet effectively improved caretakers' knowledge of the adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs. Post-test results showed a significant increase in those with excellent and good knowledge.