Knowledge, attitude and practice on antibiotic use and its resistance among medical students in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance is evolving as a major global public health problem. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice on antibiotic use and its resistance among medical students in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: Questionnaire was administered to the students of an undergraduate medical college hospital to assess their knowledge, attitude and practice about rational use of antibiotics. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.

Results: Two hundred fifty three undergraduate students completely filled the electronic question­naire. About 76.3% of the students believed that improper use of antibiotics/self-prescription can cause and promote antibiotic resistance. One third (33.2%) of students thought that use of antibi­otics will speed up recovery from flu and cold and skipping one or two doses does not contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. Majority (93.3%) of the students had never attended a Continuing medical education about rational use of antibiotics in the past. The knowledge, attitude and practice domain scores were not significantly different between the students among various academic years.

Conclusions: Our study showed that the majority of the students had good knowledge and at­titude about antibiotics and its resistance. Their practice was satisfactory towards rational use of antibiotics. Medical students need to be sensitized regarding antimicrobial resistance through various Continuing medical education and workshops highlighting its burden and impact. Proper guidelines and strict policy on sales of antibiotics without prescription should be implemented and monitored regularly.