Abstract
Introduction. This study explores how Middle Eastern students find and query medication information, and whether their social networks provide support.
Method. The methods of data analysis used include a convergent mixed method design. This study is guided by Chatman's information poverty theory and used a web-based online questionnaire. Analysis. Both quantitative (SPSS) and qualitative analyses (NVivo 10) were implemented in analysing the collected data.
Analysis. Both quantitative (SPSS) and qualitative analyses (NVivo 10) were implemented in analysing the collected data.
Results. A total of 187 respondents was included in the analysis. Important sources of medication information in social networks for the students were their family members, relatives, or friends, who are medical professionals. Medicines' side effects, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal medicine, or home remedies were the most discussed topics for students.
Conclusion. Middle Eastern international students' increasing use of their social network to obtain medication related information is likely to continue. Apropriate use of social networks will help bridge the information gap for health information service providers on campus and will shed light on communication about healthcare issues among Middle Eastern international students. Ideas about what might be done to increase access to medication information, education, and services to meet the needs of Middle Eastern international students more effectively may also be identified.