EDUKASI PENGENALAN OBAT SEJAK DINI DI SDIT BAITURRAHMAN

Abstract

Inappropriate use of medicines remains a significant public health issue in Indonesia. Limited knowledge about medicines is not only found among adults but also among elementary school children. Children are an important target group for early health literacy education, as they need to develop the ability to recognize medicines correctly, understand their benefits and potential risks, and avoid the misuse of medicines. Schools provide a strategic setting for introducing basic knowledge about medicines through engaging educational activities that are appropriate to children's developmental stages. This community service program aimed to improve the knowledge of students at SDIT Baiturrahman regarding early medicine education, including the definition of medicines, dosage forms, proper medicine use, medicine storage, and the importance of using medicines according to the recommendations of healthcare professionals.The educational intervention employed an interactive learning approach consisting of presentations with visual materials, educational videos, demonstrations of various pharmaceutical dosage forms, educational games, and question-and-answer sessions. Students' knowledge was assessed using a quiz-based instrument administered as both a pre-test and a post-test before and after the educational intervention. The evaluation data were analyzed descriptively to illustrate changes in participants' knowledge following the program. The educational activity was conducted successfully with enthusiastic participation from all students. Participants demonstrated a high level of interest throughout the learning process, particularly during discussions and educational games. The evaluation results indicated an improvement in students' knowledge regarding early medicine education, especially concerning the functions of medicines, the differences between medicines and vitamins, various pharmaceutical dosage forms, proper medicine use, and the importance of not taking medicines without the supervision of parents or healthcare professionals. The use of visual learning media and interactive teaching methods proved effective in enhancing students' understanding while creating an enjoyable learning environment. In conclusion, the early medicine education program conducted at SDIT Baiturrahman effectively improved students' health literacy regarding the safe and appropriate use of medicines. Providing medicine education from the elementary school level is expected to promote more responsible medication-related behavior and contribute to the development of a generation with greater health awareness. Similar educational programs should be implemented continuously through collaboration among educational institutions, pharmacists, other healthcare professionals, and parents.