Plasma protein fraction and albumin use: the effect of medical staff education.

A 6-week audit evaluating the use of plasma protein fraction and albumin was conducted and study data demonstrated that these colloids were being inappropriately prescribed. The P & T Committee decided to use educational rather than restrictive methods to improve colloid prescribing. Follow-up audits were performed, one immediately following staff education and another 1 year after the first audit. Although the educational actions employed in this drug utilization review appeared to have an immediate impact, the effect was not sustained long-term, indicating the need for periodic medical staff education. Methods of effective educational intervention as reported in the literature are discussed.