Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Nurses on Antimicrobial Resistance

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Antimicrobial Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge driven largely by inappropriate antimicrobial use. Nurses play a critical role in antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention, and patient education, yet gaps between knowledge and practice persist, particularly in low‐resource settings. Objective This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nurses regarding AMR in selected hospitals within the Tamale metropolis, Ghana. Methods A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted among nurses across three hospitals using a convenience sampling approach. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize variables, and inferential analysis (χ 2, t‐test, and regression) was used to assess associations. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Of the 610 nurses approached, 384 completed the questionnaire (response rate: 73.3%). All respondents (100%) had heard of AMR, with 78% identifying the hospital as their main source of information. A majority demonstrated good knowledge of AMR, with key contributors identified as poor infection control practices (67%), improper antibiotic prescribing (59%), and use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics (76%). Overall, 83% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge (mean score: 11.9 ± 0.11). Positive attitudes toward antimicrobial stewardship were observed in 78% of participants. Educational level was significantly associated with attitudes toward antibiotic use (p = 0.022), although the correlation was weak. In practice, 57% of respondents reported that patient demand contributes to inappropriate antibiotic use, while 19% did not recognize that unnecessary antibiotic administration promotes resistance. Conclusion Nurses demonstrated good knowledge and generally positive attitudes toward AMR; however, important gaps remain in stewardship‐related practices. Strengthening institutional antimicrobial stewardship programs and continuous professional education is essential to improve practice and mitigate the growing threat of AMR.