Knowledge, attitude and practice towards antibiotic use: An interventional study among medical and dental undergraduates

Abstract

Background: Adequate importance should be given to antimicrobial chemotherapy and the antibiotics resistance issues during undergraduate training. For successful and sustained intervention, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of antimicrobials should be done. So accordingly, this study was planned. Aim and Objective: The aim of the study was to compare KAP of antibiotic use among the 2nd year medical and dental students before and after intervention. Materials and Methods: Questionnaire-based study was done in medical and dental undergraduate students. After taking consent, responses were collected before and after intervention. Each correct response was given a score of 1 and responses were graded as satisfactory and unsatisfactory. Data collected was statistically analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and results were expressed in percentage. Paired t-test was used to analyze pre and post-interventional data. Results: Significant rise in mean knowledge, attitude, practice, and overall scores after intervention in medical and dental students were observed. Satisfactory responses were significantly reduced from 73% to 63% in medical students. Casual attitude towards self-use and irregular use of antimicrobial agents (AMA) was observed which may lead to antibiotic resistance. Significant improvement in overall satisfactory responses was also observed after intervention. Conclusion: Medical and dental students showed improved knowledge about AMA use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) after pharmacology teaching. However, predominant low scores of attitude and perception indicate the need for further educational interventions such as small group exercises, prescription audits, frequent discussion on rational pharmacotherapy, skillful communication with the patient about prescription. To reduce AMR, students should be trained about AMA use and its adherence by patients as well.