Current practice of doctors regarding the diagnosis and use of antibiotics in enteric fever in children: knowledge, attitude and practice

ABSTRACT

The objectives were to know current practice and knowledge of doctors regarding the diagnosis and use of antibiotics in Enteric Fever in children. The study was conducted in Lahore-city. It was a descriptive, epidemiological study. 150 doctors participated in the study. 51% were MBBS, 33% were postgraduate trainees and 16% had postgraduate degrees. Ciprofloxacin was prescribed as first choice by 51% and second choice by 37.8%. Ofloxacin was advised as first line by 21% doctors and injection Ceftriaxone by 18.6%. Chloramphenicol was advised by 8% doctors. Only 67.3% doctors prescribed the antibiotics for recommended duration. 62% doctors did not know the dosage in children. Second line antibiotics are used irrationally and those are prescribed for less than recommended duration, which leads to multi-drug resistance and relapse of fever