(With thanks to John Eyers)
CITATION: Antimicrobial stewardship knowledge and perception among physicians and pharmacists at leading tertiary teaching hospitals in Zambia: implications for future policy and practice
Aubrey Chichonyi Kalungia, Haabingozi Mwambula, Derick Munkombwe, Sarah Marshall, Natalie Schellack, Claire May, et al.
Journal of Chemotherapy 2019, Pages 378-387 [restricted access]
https://doi.org/10.1080/1120009X.2019.1622293
ABSTRACT
Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is a key strategy promoting rational antimicrobial use. In Zambia, information on health professionals’ knowledge, attitude, and practice of AMS is limited. This study was undertaken to address this at Zambia’s leading specialized teaching hospitals. Descriptive, cross-sectional study involved 137 physicians and 61 pharmacists. AMS knowledge was relatively low among physicians (51%) and pharmacists (39%). Few physicians (9%) and pharmacists (20%) demonstrated sufficient knowledge of the basic principles of AMS. Physicians’ and pharmacists’ knowledge levels were significantly associated with years of practice, job position or practice rank, and previous AMS training. The majority (95%) perceived AMR as a current problem in their practise. Most physicians (92%) and pharmacists (86%) had not undertaken AMS training before. All indicated the need for context-specific educational interventions to promote AMS in Zambia. Despite positive perceptions, basic knowledge of AMS was relatively low. Context-specific educational interventions and capacity building are needed to address AMS gaps.
Best wishes, Neil
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HIFA-Zambia profile: Neil Pakenham-Walsh is the coordinator of HIFA-Zambia and the HIFA campaign (Healthcare Information For All - www.hifa.org ). Twitter: @hifa_org FB: facebook.com/HIFAdotORG neil@hifa.org
