Antimicrobial Archetypes: Assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (AMSP) Among Faculties, Residents, and Interns in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

ABSTRACT

Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is caused by inappropriate use of antimicrobials. India's high antibiotic use contributes significantly to AMR. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (AMSPs) are crucial for optimizing antimicrobial use. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) studies are essential for evaluating healthcare professionals' beliefs and conduct regarding AMR and AMSPs. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital evaluated doctors' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding AMR and stewardship programs. The study involved 202 participants, including faculty members, postgraduates, and interns. Results The study involved 202 participants, with residents being the majority at 51.4%, followed by faculty at 26.7% and interns at 21.7%. Faculty members showed the highest overall knowledge, followed by residents and interns. Despite possessing knowledge, practitioners did not consistently implement their knowledge in their daily practices, with a statistically significant difference of p < 0.01. There was a substantial disparity in attitude between the departments, as evidenced by a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01. Conclusion Positive trends in knowledge and attitudes exist, but there are areas for improvement in translating attitudes into clinical practices. There is a significant disparity among faculty members, residents, and interns, highlighting the urgent need for interventions to bridge the gap. Implementing antibiotic prescribing guidelines at the institutional level and enhancing knowledge, attitudes, and practices among healthcare professionals are crucial to addressing AMR.