Attitude of Prescribers about the Rational Use of Antibiotics for Common Infections in a Clinical Setting as Part of Antibiotic Stewardship Program

Abstract

Background: The resistance of the bacteria toward the antibiotics is growing day by day, and it is a serious threat globally. The reasons are self-medication, unjustified prescription of antibiotics, high use of antibiotics in livestock, and nonadherence to antibiotic treatment guidelines by prescribers. The aim of the present study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of the prescribers toward the prescription of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire which contains questions to assess the knowledge and attitude of the prescribers. The questionnaire had three parts: the first part was used to obtain the basic demographic characteristics from participants, the second part had questions regarding the antibiotic indication in common infections, and the third part assessed the knowledge questions about antibiotic resistance. The questionnaire was attempted by eighty prescribers. Results: More than 50% of the medical practitioners agreed that antibiotics had to be used for some common infections such as acute gastroenteritis, asymptomatic bacteriuria in nonpregnant patients, and burn wounds with no evidence of infection. The knowledge of the prescribers regarding antibiotic resistance is variable. Conclusion: A higher percentage of the prescribers responded in favor of the use of antibiotics for common infections. It requires an awareness program to sensitize the prescribers regarding the prescription of antibiotics for appropriate indications and the seriousness of antibiotic resistance.