An assessment of the training, knowledge and understanding of terrorism countermeasures among British pharmacists

Aim To assess pharmacists’ chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) terrorism knowledge and training needs. Design A purposively sampled, structured postal questionnaire Subjects and setting A sample of hospital and community pharmacies in England early in 2007. Outcome measures Awareness of the potential for a CBRN attack; competence in identifying and managing an attack with chemical or biological agents; formal training received and access to CBRN countermeasures information; willingness to participate in disaster medical assistance teams (DMATs). Results 193 pharmacists from all types of hospital and community pharmacy responded. About half (52 per cent) thought an attack was likely in the next five years. Most were unaware of national plans to co-ordinate a response (72 per cent) or if pharmacy would be involved (91 per cent). Respondents rated as poor their own ability to recognise or deal with attacks by chemical and biological agents. About half (51 per cent) thought that CBRN training should be added to the undergraduate syllabus while 68 per cent would welcome postgraduate training. Just over half (54 per cent) were willing to participate in a DMAT, should one be established in the UK. Conclusion Knowledge of CBRN countermeasures was poor but willingness to learn and play a more active role was high. Educators and government should respond to this need.