Darlenne B Kenga, Jahit Sacarlal, Mohsin Sidat, Valéria Chicamba, Andrea Ntanga Kenga, Yara Manjate, Harriett Myers, Ramígio Pololo, Kathryn T Kampa, Troy D Moon
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where antimicrobial stewardship is often lacking. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals in pediatric settings regarding antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship at Maputo Central Hospital, Mozambique.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among pediatric healthcare professionals using a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and their associated factors for inappropriate prescribing.
Results: Of 108 eligible participants, 82 (76%) responded to the questionnaire. Overall, 53 (66%) correctly identified that antibiotics do not treat viral infections, and 79 (99%) recognized factors contributing to antimicrobial resistance. However, only 28 (34%) were familiar with the concept of antimicrobial stewardship programs, and participant knowledge related to empiric antibiotic selection was suboptimal. Physicians had significantly higher knowledge scores than laboratory technicians (p = 0.036). Prior antimicrobial stewardship training was strongly associated with improved knowledge (p < 0.001) and better prescribing practices (p = 0.005). A majority, 77 (94%), expressed interest in further antimicrobial stewardship training.
Conclusion: Pediatric healthcare professionals at Maputo Central Hospital are generally aware of antimicrobial resistance and exhibit positive attitudes toward antimicrobial stewardship. However, notable gaps exist in their knowledge and practices. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship education, increasing access to treatment guidelines, and integrating antimicrobial stewardship training into routine professional development are recommended to improve appropriate antimicrobial prescribing.
期刊介绍：
Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control is a global forum for all those working on the prevention, diagnostic and treatment of health-care associated infections and antimicrobial resistance development in all health-care settings. The journal covers a broad spectrum of preeminent practices and best available data to the top interventional and translational research, and innovative developments in the field of infection control.
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