Assessment of awareness and practice gaps related to antimicrobial resistance among medical practitioners

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat driven largely by irrational antibiotic use and inadequate antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). Clinicians play a pivotal role in combating AMR. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding AMR among doctors in a tertiary care setting in India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 medical practitioners from government and private healthcare facilities. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered questionnaire evaluating knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic use and AMR. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: Overall knowledge and attitudes were satisfactory. Most participants recognized hand hygiene as essential in preventing AMR (95.1%), and 79.3% were aware of hospital AMS programs. However, knowledge gaps existed regarding antibiotic escalation-de-escalation (36.1%) and the WHO AWaRe classification (30.8%). A majority opposed prescribing antibiotics based on patient demand (91.5%) and supported mandatory AMS training (91.8%). While 84.3% reported never prescribing antibiotics due to patient pressure, 66.5% discontinued empiric therapy after negative culture reports. Conclusions: Despite good knowledge and positive attitudes, gaps persist in stewardship implementation. Strengthening training, diagnostics, and guideline adherence is essential to bridge the knowledge practice gap and address AMR effectively.