Background: The progress in creating novel antibiotics has been lethargic in recent decennium, in spite of the pressing demand. Those on the brink of entering the medical field – final-year undergraduates, interns, and postgraduate residents – represent the forthcoming cohort of antimicrobial prescribers. It is imperative that they possess a comprehensive understanding and a conscientious approach to antibiotic prescription. This is crucial to address antibiotic resistance sagaciously and pave the way for judicious management.
Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to assess understanding and attitudes about antibiotics, resistance, and related factors among undergraduate, intern, and postgraduate medical students.
Materials and Methods: A group of 144 individuals (35 final-year medical students, 72 interns, and 37 resident doctors) completed a pre-validated questionnaire. Data collected included basic antimicrobial information, treatment protocol comprehension, and attitudes toward antimicrobials. Percentages were calculated for categorical data, and Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis (significance level P < 0.05).
Results: 86.8% correctly identified infections requiring antibiotics; 12.5% mistakenly thought that both viral and bacterial infections needed antibiotics. 93.8% said that antibiotics could be used for treatment and prophylaxis. 94.4% agreed that overuse and misuse cause antibiotic resistance. 31.3% and 62.5% identified macrolides and fluoroquinolones as common for upper respiratory infections and urinary tract infections, respectively, with a P < 0.05. 71.52% knew about infection control programs, and 48.6% were aware of their institute’s antibiotic policy.
Conclusion: Despite strong foundational knowledge about antibiotics, gaps remain. The study’s findings could help set new goals for teaching medical students proper antibiotic knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotic recommendation.
Key words: Antibiotics; Resistance; Knowledge; Attitude; Antibiotic Policy
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