Legibility assessment of pictograms by medication users in southern Brazil

Abstract

Objective: To develop and validate pictograms related to medication use in order to improve understanding and treatment adherence among users of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) in a municipality in Southern Brazil. Methods: This was a descriptive study with both qualitative and quantitative approaches, conducted at a health unit in Formigueiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Initially, focus groups were held with health professionals and SUS users to design the pictograms. Subsequently, 5 pictograms were selected and submitted to a legibility test involving 200 participants. A pictogram was considered legible if it was understood by ≥ 85% of respondents, in accordance with ISO 3864-1. Results: Of the 5 pictograms evaluated, 4 met the legibility criterion. The pictogram “Take 1 hour before breakfast or chimarrão” was the least understood (65%). Pictogram comprehension showed a statistically significant association with education level, occupation, and the number of daily medications used (p<0.05). Conclusion: Pictograms proved to be effective tools in aiding comprehension of medical prescriptions, especially when combined with verbal instructions. The use of simple, culturally appropriate images may support the rational use of medications within the SUS.