Development of an Optimal Short Course for Pharmacy Students in Sri Lanka to Enhance the Knowledge of Antimicrobial Resistance

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been identified as one of the greatest threats to human health. Healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in patient care activities, and an understanding of antimicrobial agents and AMR is a critical component of high-quality care. Pharmacists are experts in medicines, and their education and training can directly impact the quality of services they provide to patients. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) competencies for pharmacy students have been developed and implemented in the developed world. However, in developing countries like Sri Lanka, there is a gap in the training of pharmacy students in AMS competencies, thereby hindering their ability to be effective in stewardship activities upon graduation.This study presents a protocol that includes learning outcomes and content to explore a national consensus on AMS competencies that will improve knowledge about antibiotics and AMR in pharmacy students in Sri Lanka. The first draft of the proposed curriculum was developed through a literature review, informed by extensive investigations of pharmacy students’ current knowledge and understanding and ensuring suitability in the Sri Lankan context. A process of liaising with academics and stakeholders in Sri Lanka and discussions with academics from developed countries (such as Australia) was used to prepare the final draft. Future consultation and implementation will also seek further input from current and recently graduated pharmacy students in Sri Lanka. The competencies developed will apply to pharmacy undergraduate programs in Sri Lankan universities and for practicing Sri Lankan pharmacists in a continuous professional development program. Once implemented, this protocol will help strengthen AMS education amongst pharmacists in Sri Lanka and ultimately benefit Sri Lankan consumers and assist other health care professionals addressing AMR.