ntroduction: The problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rising worldwide. One of
the most significant factors influencing antimicrobial resistance in low- and middle-income
countries is the lack of the skills and knowledge of health care providers for proper
antimicrobial use.
Aim: To identify knowledge, characterize practices and describe the attitude of Egyptian
prescribers towards antibiotic use.
Methods: A self-administered validated questionnaire was distributed among Egyptian
prescribers.
Results: Five hundred Egyptian physicians responded to the questionnaire, 113 (22.6%) reported
having Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ASP) at their workplace, 99 (19.8%) use international
antibiotic guidelines as the main source for prescribing activity, 358 (71.6%) recorded adequate
knowledge. Elder prescribers and those who work in private or university hospitals were significantly more knowledgeable (p=0.031 and 0.001, respectively). Forty-seven (9.4%) showed
a positive attitude towards proper antibiotic prescription. The type of work institution; primary
health clinics and private, or university hospital and the specialty are significantly associated with
a positive attitude (p=0.009 and 0.015, respectively). Seventy-eight (15.6%) expressed a proper
antibiotic prescription practice. Elder age, more experienced and trained prescribers showed more
proper practice. The implementation of ASP and using proper sources of information were
significantly associated with proper practice (p=0.012 and 0.008, respectively).
Conclusion: Egyptian prescribers have a good level of knowledge about antibiotics.
However, low rates of positive attitude and proper practice towards the problem of AMR
and ASP are recorded. |
