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Acampora M, Paleologo M, Graffigna G, Barello S. Uncovering influential factors in human antibiotic prescribing: a meta-synthesis study informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. J Hosp Infect 2024; 144:28-55. [PMID: 38092303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2023.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify modifiable determinants (facilitators and barriers) related to the choice of prescribing antibiotics in human medicine across clinical settings. Enhanced management of antibiotics can help slow the spread of resistant bacteria. A qualitative meta-synthesis approach was used, according to Sandelowski and Barroso's method. Included studies were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Findings were extracted and organized to form a qualitative meta-summary. The Theoretical Domains Framework, the Capabilities-Opportunities-Motivation (COM-B) model and the Behaviour Change Wheel were used as a coding matrix for data interpretation. The analysis of 63 included studies revealed barriers and facilitators in 12 of 14 domains specified by the Theoretical Domains Framework. Prescribers' capabilities, motivation and opportunities were found to be the main drivers of antibiotic prescribing behaviour. Knowledge, skills, beliefs, expectations, the influence of patients and colleagues, organizational culture and infrastructure characteristics have a significant impact on prescribing behaviours. A comprehensive inventory of factors related to antibiotic prescribing has been compiled. Interventions to promote appropriate antibiotic prescribing should take a systemic approach rather than focusing solely on individual-level variables. Furthermore, the adoption of co-design approaches for such interventions is desirable to ensure greater applicability and sustainability in the real-world context of organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Acampora
- EngageMinds HUB - Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano e Cremona, Milan and Cremona, Italy; Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - M Paleologo
- EngageMinds HUB - Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano e Cremona, Milan and Cremona, Italy; Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - G Graffigna
- EngageMinds HUB - Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano e Cremona, Milan and Cremona, Italy; Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Milano, Milan, Italy; Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - S Barello
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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AbdEl-Aty MA, Amin MT, Ahmed SM, Elsedfy GO, El-Gazzar AF. Exploring factors for antibiotic over-prescription in children with acute upper respiratory tract infections in Assiut, Egypt: a qualitative study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2024; 13:2. [PMID: 38185690 PMCID: PMC10773027 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-023-01357-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over-prescription of antibiotics contributes to antibiotic resistance, which is a global health threat. Egypt has alarmingly high rates of antibiotic over-prescription for acute upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) in children. To effectively address this issue, it is important to understand the various factors that influence prescription behaviors. The Teixeira antibiotic prescription behavioral model (TAPBM) offers a comprehensive framework through which these factors can be explored. This qualitative study sought to investigate the perspectives of key stakeholders involved in pediatric healthcare in Egypt, with the primary goal of identifying the underlying determinants that contributed to this problem. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted in Assiut City, Egypt, between January and March 2023. Purposive sampling was used to select participants, including consultant pediatricians, supervisors of pediatric training programs, and specialists in infection prevention and control. Thirteen semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Thematic analysis was performed using MAXQDA 2020 software. RESULTS Two main themes emerged from the analysis: intrinsic factors related to physicians, extrinsic factors related to patients, and nonphysician factors. Intrinsic factors encompass personal characteristics and attitudes. Prescribing decisions were influenced by factors such as fear of complications, limited follow-up visits, and competition. Knowledge and education also played a significant role. Moreover, diagnostic uncertainty in distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections posed a challenge. Extrinsic factors included patient and caregiver factors, such as parental expectations and demands for antibiotics, driven by the belief that they produced rapid results. Moreover, patients' demographic factors, including socioeconomic status and living conditions, affected their prescribing behavior. Health system-related factors, such as the type of healthcare institution and the absence of formal national guidelines, were identified as influential factors. Additionally, this study highlighted the influence of the pharmaceutical industry. The potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on antibiotic prescriptions was addressed. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the intricate interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic factors that shape antibiotic prescription decisions, underscoring the significance of addressing these factors in mitigating overprescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Attia AbdEl-Aty
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Mariam Taher Amin
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt.
| | - Sabra Mohamed Ahmed
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Ghada Omar Elsedfy
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Children's Hospital, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Amira Fathy El-Gazzar
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Badr University in Cairo, Badr City, Egypt
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Kasse GE, Humphries J, Cosh SM, Islam MS. Factors contributing to the variation in antibiotic prescribing among primary health care physicians: a systematic review. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:8. [PMID: 38166736 PMCID: PMC10759428 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02223-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance is growing globally. The practice of health professionals when prescribing antibiotics in primary health care settings significantly impacts antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic prescription is a complex process influenced by various internal and external factors. This systematic review aims to summarize the available evidence regarding factors contributing to the variation in antibiotic prescribing among physicians in primary healthcare settings. METHODS This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA guidelines. We included qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies that examined factors influencing prescription practice and variability among primary healthcare physicians. We excluded editorials, opinions, systematic reviews and studies published in languages other than English. We searched studies from electronic databases: PubMed, ProQuest Health and Medicine, Web Science, and Scopus. The quality of the included studies was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (Version 2018). Narrative synthesis was employed to synthesize the result and incorporate quantitative studies. RESULTS Of the 1816 identified studies, 49 studies spanning 2000-2023 were eligible for review. The factors influencing antibiotic prescription practice and variability were grouped into physician-related, patient-related, and healthcare system-related factors. Clinical guidelines, previous patient experience, physician experience, colleagues' prescribing practice, pharmaceutical pressure, time pressure, and financial considerations were found to be influencing factors of antibiotic prescribing practice. In addition, individual practice patterns, practice volume, and relationship with patients were also other factors for the variability of antibiotic prescription, especially for intra-physician prescription variability. CONCLUSION Antibiotic prescription practice in primary health care is a complex practice, influenced by a combination of different factors and this may account for the variation. To address the factors that influence the variability of antibiotic prescription (intra- and inter-physician), interventions should aim to reduce diagnostic uncertainty and provide continuous medical education and training to promote patient-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gashaw Enbiyale Kasse
- School of Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, 2351, Australia.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, 196, Ethiopia.
| | - Judy Humphries
- School of Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, 2351, Australia
| | - Suzanne M Cosh
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, 2351, Australia
| | - Md Shahidul Islam
- School of Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, 2351, Australia
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Stenlund S, Mâsse LC, Stenlund D, Sillanmäki L, Appelt KC, Koivumaa-Honkanen H, Rautava P, Suominen S, Patrick DM. Do Patients' Psychosocial Characteristics Impact Antibiotic Prescription Rates? Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1022. [PMID: 37370341 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous research suggests that the characteristics of both patients and physicians can contribute to the overuse of antibiotics. Until now, patients' psychosocial characteristics have not been widely explored as a potential contributor to the overuse of antibiotics. In this study, the relationship between a patient's psychosocial characteristics (self-reported in postal surveys in 2003) and the number of antibiotics they were prescribed (recorded in Finnish national registry data between 2004-2006) were analyzed for 19,300 working-aged Finns. Psychosocial characteristics included life satisfaction, a sense of coherence, perceived stress, hostility, and optimism. In a structural equation model, patients' adverse psychosocial characteristics were not related to increased antibiotic prescriptions in the subsequent three years. However, these characteristics were strongly associated with poor general health status, which in turn was associated with an increased number of subsequent antibiotic prescriptions. Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that individuals who used healthcare services more frequently also received more antibiotic prescriptions. The current study does not support the view that patients' adverse psychosocial characteristics are related to an increased number of antibiotic prescriptions. This could encourage physicians to actively discuss treatment options with their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Säde Stenlund
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Research Services, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Louise C Mâsse
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - David Stenlund
- Department of Mathematics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, 20500 Turku, Finland
| | - Lauri Sillanmäki
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Research Services, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirstin C Appelt
- Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
| | - Heli Koivumaa-Honkanen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine (Psychiatry), University of Eastern Finland, 70029 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Päivi Rautava
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Research Services, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Sakari Suominen
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Research Services, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland
- School of Health Sciences, University of Skövde, 54128 Skövde, Sweden
| | - David M Patrick
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada
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Poluektova O, Robertson DA, Rafferty A, Cunney R, Lunn PD. A scoping review and behavioural analysis of factors underlying overuse of antimicrobials. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2023; 5:dlad043. [PMID: 37168837 PMCID: PMC10164659 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlad043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overuse of antimicrobials is a challenging global issue that contributes to antimicrobial resistance. Despite widespread awareness of the problem among members of the medical community and various attempts to improve prescription practices, existing antimicrobial stewardship programmes are not always effective. In our view, this may reflect limited understanding of factors that influence prescription of antimicrobials as empirical therapy, implying a need to address the psychological mechanisms behind some of the specific behaviours involved. Objectives To identify factors that influence the antimicrobials prescription as empirical therapy, and to relate these factors to findings from behavioural science. Methods We conducted a scoping review of the literature on the factors underlying antimicrobial prescription decisions, following the protocol designed using PRISMA guidelines. Results and conclusions From a final sample of 90 sources, we identified ten factors important in antimicrobial prescription decisions. In the second stage of our analysis, we grouped them into five final categories: (1) nature of the decision, (2) social influences, (3) individual differences, (4) characteristics of the patient, (5) context. We analyse these categories using a behavioural science perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deirdre A Robertson
- Behavioural Research Unit, The Economic and Social Research Institute, Whitaker Square, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, School of Psychology, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aisling Rafferty
- Children’s Health Ireland, Department of Pharmacy, Dublin, Ireland
- University of Birmingham, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Sciences,Birmingham, UK
| | - Robert Cunney
- Children’s Health Ireland, Irish Meningitis and Sepsis Reference Laboratory, Dublin, Ireland
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Department of Microbiology, Dublin, Ireland
- Children’s Health Ireland, Department of Microbiology, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter D Lunn
- Behavioural Research Unit, The Economic and Social Research Institute, Whitaker Square, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, Department of Economics, Dublin, Ireland
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Arnau-Sánchez J, Jiménez-Guillén C, Alcaraz-Quiñonero M, Vigueras-Abellán JJ, Garnica-Martínez B, Soriano-Ibarra JF, Martín-Ayala G. Factors Influencing Inappropriate Use of Antibiotics in Infants under 3 Years of Age in Primary Care: A Qualitative Study of the Paediatricians' Perceptions. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12040727. [PMID: 37107089 PMCID: PMC10135072 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12040727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic consumption in infants of less than three years is higher than average the average consumption for general population. The aim of this study was to explore paediatricians' opinions regarding factors influencing inappropriate use of antibiotics in early infancy in primary care. A qualitative study based on the grounded theory using convenience sampling was conducted in Murcia Region, Spain. Three focal discussion groups were developed with 25 participants from 9 health areas (HA) of Murcia Region. Paediatricians perceived that health care pressure was an influential factor in the prescribing behaviour, forcing them to prescribe antibiotics for a rapid cure in unjustified circumstances. Participants believed that antibiotic consuming was related to parents' self-medication due to their perceptions about the curative potential of antibiotics together with facilities to obtain these agents from pharmacies without prescription. The misuse of antibiotics by paediatricians was associated to the lack of education on antibiotic prescription and the limited use of clinical guidelines. Not prescribing an antibiotic in the presence of a potentially severe disease generated more fear than an unnecessary prescription. The clinical interaction asymmetry was more evident, when paediatricians use trapping risk strategies as a mechanism to justify a restrictive prescribing behaviour. The rational model of clinical decision-making in antibiotic prescribing among paediatricians was determined by factors associated with health care management, social awareness and knowledge of the population and pressure of families' demands. The present findings have contributed to the design and implementation of health interventions in the community for improving awareness of the appropriate use of antibiotics, as well as for a better quality of prescription by peadiatricians.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Arnau-Sánchez
- General Directorate of Health Planning, Research, Pharmacy and Citizen Services, Health Counseling of Murcia Region, 30001 Murcia, Spain
- Research Group of Murciano Institute of Biosanitary Research, IMIB, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Casimiro Jiménez-Guillén
- General Directorate of Health Planning, Research, Pharmacy and Citizen Services, Health Counseling of Murcia Region, 30001 Murcia, Spain
- National Plan for Antibiotic Resistance (PRAN) in Murcia Region, 30001 Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Juan Francisco Soriano-Ibarra
- Regional Paediatric, Murciano Health Service, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Health Care Center of Lorca Sur, III Health Area, 30800 Murcia, Spain
| | - Gema Martín-Ayala
- General Directorate of Health Planning, Research, Pharmacy and Citizen Services, Health Counseling of Murcia Region, 30001 Murcia, Spain
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da Silva-Brandao RR, de Oliveira SM, Correa JS, Zago LF, Fracolli LA, Padoveze MC, Currea GCC. Coping with in-locus factors and systemic contradictions affecting antibiotic prescription and dispensing practices in primary care-A qualitative One Health study in Brazil. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280575. [PMID: 36662722 PMCID: PMC9857971 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing threat to global health. The risks and sanitary consequences of AMR are disproportionately experienced by those living in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). While addressing antibiotic use has largely been documented in hospital settings, the understanding of social drivers affecting antibiotic prescribing and dispensing practices in the context of human and animal health in primary care (PC) in LMICs remains extremely limited. We seek to explore how in-locus and multi-level social factors influence antibiotic prescriptions and dispensing practices in the context of human and animal health in primary care in Brazil. This is a baseline qualitative One Health study; semi-structured interviews and field observations were undertaken in primary care sites located in a socioeconomically vulnerable area in the city of São Paulo, the most populated city of Brazil. Twenty-five human and animal healthcare professionals (HP) were purposely sampled. Interview data were subject to thematic analysis. Three overlapping social drivers were identified across HPs' discourses: individual and behavioral challenges; relational and contextual factors influencing the overprescription of antibiotics (AB); and structural barriers and systemic contradictions in the health system. As a result of the interaction between multilevel in-locus and structural and contextual factors, HPs experience contextual and territorial challenges that directly influence their risk perception, diagnosis, use of laboratorial and image exams, time and decision to undergo treatment, choice of AB and strategies in coping with AB prescriptions. Additionally, in-locus factors influencing antibiotic prescriptions and dispensing practices are intertwined with individual accounts of risk management, systemic contradictions and ambivalences in the national health system. Our findings suggest interventions tackling AB use and AMR in Brazil should consider the social context, the complex health system structure and current integrated programs and services in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Rubem da Silva-Brandao
- Nursing School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandi Michele de Oliveira
- Section of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | - Gloria Cristina Cordoba Currea
- Section of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Amin MT, Abd El Aty MA, Ahmed SM, Elsedfy GO, Hassanin ES, El-Gazzar AF. Over prescription of antibiotics in children with acute upper respiratory tract infections: A study on the knowledge, attitude and practices of non-specialized physicians in Egypt. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277308. [PMID: 36327297 PMCID: PMC9632891 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is currently one of the global public health threats. Increased antibiotic consumption in humans, animals, and agriculture has contributed directly to the spread of AMR. Upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) are one of the most common conditions treated by antibiotics, even if unnecessary as in cases of viral infections and self-limited conditions which represent the most cases of URIs. Investigating physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding antibiotic prescriptions in children with acute URIs may reflect the problem of antibiotic over prescription. This study aims to assess the problem in our community and provide information for further planning of appropriate interventions to optimize antibiotic prescriptions. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study for all non-specialized physicians dealing with acute upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) in pediatrics sittings in Assiut district, Egypt. We used a self-administered questionnaire to assess physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practice. In addition, four clinical vignettes addressing different URI scenarios were included in the questionnaire to assess the patterns of antibiotic prescriptions in common cases. RESULTS Our study included 153 physicians whose mean age was 32.2 ± 8.7, most of whom were pediatric residents in different health institutes in Assiut district. They had good knowledge as out of the 17 knowledge questions,the mean number of correct answers was 12.4 ± 2.9. Regarding their attitudes, mean attitude scores for inappropriate antibiotic prescribing were low. However, of those scores, the responsibility of others had the highest score (3.8 ± 0.61). Prescribing practice in special conditions of URIs showed that 80% of participants prescribed antibiotics if fever continued for more than five days and 61.4% if the child had a yellowish or greenish nasal discharge. Among 612 clinical vignettes, 326 contained antibiotic prescriptions (53.3%), and appropriate antibiotic prescriptions represented only 8.3% overall. CONCLUSIONS Physicians dealing with acute URIs in outpatients' clinics in the Assiut district have good knowledge about antibiotic use and resistance and demonstrate a good attitude toward appropriate antibiotic use. Although the percentage of inappropriate prescriptions in clinical vignettes in high, more research is required to investigate the factors of antibiotic inappropriate prescribing practice and non-adherence to guidelines. Also, it is essential to set up a national antibiotic stewardship program to improve antibiotic prescribing and contain antimicrobial resistance problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Taher Amin
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Attia Abd El Aty
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sabra Mohamed Ahmed
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ghada Omar Elsedfy
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Amira Fathy El-Gazzar
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Badr University, Cairo, Egypt
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Tertiary hospitals physician's knowledge and perceptions towards antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance in Cameroon. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1116. [PMID: 34715797 PMCID: PMC8555219 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06792-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections due to resistant bacteria are associated with severe illness, increased risk for complications, hospital admissions, and higher mortality. Inappropriate use of antibiotics, which contributes to increased antibiotic resistance (ABR), is common in healthcare settings across the globe. In Cameroon, antibiotics have been reported as high as 45-70% of prescriptions. We sought to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding appropriate antibiotic use and ABR of medical doctors practicing in tertiary hospitals in Yaoundé, Cameroon. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a 54-item self-administered questionnaire sent via email to medical doctors working in the four major tertiary hospitals of Yaoundé. The questionnaire recorded socio-demographics, perceptions on antibiotic use and ABR, sources and usefulness of education on ABR, and clinical scenarios to appraise knowledge. RESULTS A total of 98/206 (48%) doctors responded. Years of experience ranged between 1 and 17 years. Most participants agreed that ABR is a problem nationwide (93%) and antibiotics are overused (96%), but only one third (32%) thought that ABR was a problem in their wards. Most respondents (65%) were confident that they use antibiotics appropriately. We found a mean knowledge score of 56% (± 14), with prescribers not influenced by patient-exerted pressure for antibiotic prescribing scoring better compared to those influenced by patients (67% vs 53%, p = 0.01). Overall, most participants (99%) expressed interest for further education on both appropriate antibiotic use and ABR. CONCLUSION Confidence of prescribers in their ability to appropriately use antibiotics conflicts with the low level of knowledge on antibiotic use in this group of doctors. Moreover, the opinion of the majority, that ABR is not a problem in their own backyard is in keeping with similar studies in other countries and is of significant concern. Introduction of formal antibiotic stewardship programmes in Cameroon may be a useful intervention.
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Rodrigues AT, Nunes JCF, Estrela M, Figueiras A, Roque F, Herdeiro MT. Comparing Hospital and Primary Care Physicians' Attitudes and Knowledge Regarding Antibiotic Prescribing: A Survey within the Centre Region of Portugal. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10060629. [PMID: 34070337 PMCID: PMC8229910 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health problem, leading to longer hospital stays, raising medical costs and mortality levels. As physicians' attitudes are key factors to antibiotic prescribing, this study sought to explore their differences between primary care and hospital settings. METHODS A survey was conducted between September 2011 and February 2012 in the center region of Portugal in the form of a questionnaire to compare hospital (n = 154) and primary care (n = 421) physicians' attitudes and knowledge regarding antibiotic prescribing. RESULTS More than 70% of the attitudes were statistically different (p < 0.05) between hospital physicians (HPs) and primary care physicians (PCPs). When compared to PCPs, HPs showed higher agreement with antibiotic resistances being a public health problem and ascribed more importance to microbiological tests and to the influence of prescription on the development of resistances. On the other hand, PCPs tended to agree more regarding the negative impact of self-medication with antibiotics dispensed without medical prescription and the need for rapid diagnostic tests. Seven out of nine sources of knowledge's usefulness were statistically different between both settings, with HPs considering most of the knowledge sources to be more useful than PCPs. CONCLUSIONS Besides the efforts made to improve both antibiotic prescribing and use, there are differences in the opinions between physicians working in different settings that might impact the quality of antibiotic prescribing. In the future, these differences must be considered to develop more appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Research (CEFAR), National Association of Pharmacies, 1249 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João C. F. Nunes
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Marta Estrela
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
| | - Adolfo Figueiras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health—CIBERESP), 28001 Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Fátima Roque
- Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic of Guarda (IPG-UDI), 6300 Guarda, Portugal
- Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200 Covilhã, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
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Zomahoun HTV, Samson I, Sawadogo J, Massougbodji J, Gogovor A, Diendéré E, Turgeon F, Légaré F. Effects of the scope of practice on family physicians: a systematic review. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:12. [PMID: 33419398 PMCID: PMC7796628 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01328-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family medicine is a branch of medicine that manages common and long-term illnesses in children and adults. Family physicians in particular play a major role and their scope of practice is expected to impact patient and population. However, little is known about its impact on physicians. We aimed to assess the effects of scope of practice on family physician outcomes. METHODS We performed a systematic review that we reported using PRISMA guidelines. For the inclusion criteria, any study exploring an association between the scope of practice and physician outcomes was considered. Three bibliographic databases Medline, Embase, and ERIC were consulted through OVID interface from their respective inceptions to November, 2020. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of studies using appropriate tools. We conducted data synthesis using a narrative form. GRADE was used for evaluating quality of cumulative evidence. RESULTS In total, we included 12 studies with 38,732 participants from 6927 citations identified. Eleven of them were cross-sectional, and one was a cohort study with acceptable methodological quality. We found that: 1) family physicians with diverse clinical and nonclinical activities significantly improve their job satisfaction (p<0.05); 2) family physicians with a variety of clinical practices significantly improve their competences and health status (p<0.05); 3) family physicians who perform clinical procedures (mainly extended to gynecological procedures) significantly improve their psychosocial outcomes (e.g., job satisfaction) (p<0.05); and 4) some associations are not statistically significant (e.g., relation between variety of practice settings and outcomes). We observed that the evidence available has a very low level. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the scope of practice may be favorably associated with some family physician outcomes but with a very low level of evidence available. Based on these findings, healthcare system managers could monitor the scope of practice among family physicians and encourage future research in this field. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION Our protocol was registered under the number CRD42019121990 in PROSPERO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hervé Tchala Vignon Zomahoun
- VITAM, Research Center in Sustainable Health, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec, QC Canada
- Health and Social Services Systems, Knowledge Translation and Implementation Component of the Quebec SPOR-SUPPORT Unit, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS-CN), Quebec, QC Canada
- School of Physical & Occupational Therapy, Faculty of medicine and Health Science, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Isabelle Samson
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, QC, Canada
- Groupe de Médecine Familiale – Quatre-Bourgeois, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Jasmine Sawadogo
- First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission, Québec, Canada
| | - José Massougbodji
- VITAM, Research Center in Sustainable Health, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec, QC Canada
- Health and Social Services Systems, Knowledge Translation and Implementation Component of the Quebec SPOR-SUPPORT Unit, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS-CN), Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Amédé Gogovor
- VITAM, Research Center in Sustainable Health, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec, QC Canada
- Health and Social Services Systems, Knowledge Translation and Implementation Component of the Quebec SPOR-SUPPORT Unit, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS-CN), Quebec, QC Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, QC, Canada
- Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Shared Decision Making and Knowledge Translation, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Ella Diendéré
- VITAM, Research Center in Sustainable Health, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec, QC Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS-CN), Quebec, QC Canada
- Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Shared Decision Making and Knowledge Translation, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
| | | | - France Légaré
- VITAM, Research Center in Sustainable Health, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec, QC Canada
- Health and Social Services Systems, Knowledge Translation and Implementation Component of the Quebec SPOR-SUPPORT Unit, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS-CN), Quebec, QC Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, QC, Canada
- Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Shared Decision Making and Knowledge Translation, Université Laval, Quebec, QC Canada
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12
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Figueiras A, López-Vázquez P, Gonzalez-Gonzalez C, Vázquez-Lago JM, Piñeiro-Lamas M, López-Durán A, Sánchez C, Herdeiro MT, Zapata-Cachafeiro M. Impact of a multifaceted intervention to improve antibiotic prescribing: a pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2020; 9:195. [PMID: 33287881 PMCID: PMC7722452 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-020-00857-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to assess the effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of a multifaceted intervention aimed at improving antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory infections in primary care. DESIGN Large-sized, two-arm, open-label, pragmatic, cluster-randomised controlled trial. SETTING All primary care physicians working for the Spanish National Health Service (NHS) in Galicia (region in north-west Spain). PARTICIPANTS The seven spatial clusters were distributed by unequal randomisation (3:4) of the intervention and control groups. A total of 1217 physicians (1.30 million patients) were recruited from intervention clusters and 1393 physicians (1.46 million patients) from control clusters. INTERVENTIONS One-hour educational outreach visits tailored to training needs identified in a previous study; an online course integrated in practice accreditation; and a clinical decision support system. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Changes in the ESAC (European Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption) quality indicators for outpatient antibiotic use. We used generalised linear mixed and conducted a ROI analysis to ascertain the overall cost savings. RESULTS Median follow-up was 19 months. The adjusted effect on overall antibiotic prescribing attributable to the intervention was - 4.2% (95% CI: - 5.3% to - 3.2%), with this being more pronounced for penicillins - 6.5 (95% CI: - 7.9% to - 5.2%) and for the ratio of consumption of broad- to narrow-spectrum penicillins, cephalosporins, and macrolides - 9.0% (95% CI: - 14.0 to - 4.1%). The cost of the intervention was €87 per physician. Direct savings per physician attributable to the reduction in antibiotic prescriptions was €311 for the NHS and €573 for patient contributions, with an ROI of €2.57 and €5.59 respectively. CONCLUSIONS Interventions designed on the basis of gaps in physicians' knowledge of and attitudes to misprescription can improve antibiotic prescribing and yield important direct cost savings. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN24158380 . Registered 5 February 2009.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Figueiras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15786, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Paula López-Vázquez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15786, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Cristian Gonzalez-Gonzalez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15786, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Vázquez-Lago
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15786, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Piñeiro-Lamas
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana López-Durán
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Coro Sánchez
- Pontevedra Primary Care Service, SERGAS Eoxi Pontevedra-Salnés, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - María Teresa Herdeiro
- Department of Medical Sciences & Institute for Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maruxa Zapata-Cachafeiro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15786, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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13
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Rusic D, Bozic J, Bukic J, Vilovic M, Tomicic M, Seselja Perisin A, Leskur D, Modun D, Cohadzic T, Tomic S. Antimicrobial Resistance: Physicians' and Pharmacists' Perspective. Microb Drug Resist 2020; 27:670-677. [PMID: 33052767 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2020.0272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate pharmacists' and physicians' attitudes and knowledge about antimicrobial treatment and resistance and based on the results to identify possible gaps and suggest opportunities for collaboration between the two professions. Methods: The physician's questionnaire consisted of 47 items and the pharmacists' questionnaire consisted of 50 items. Participants were asked to identify situations in which they were more likely to prescribe/dispense an antimicrobial without a firm indication, to identify the greatest contributors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among health care workers, to rate statements related to AMR, how frequently they used different sources of information and to rate the possible causes of AMR. Furthermore, preparedness for specific actions in practice was self-rated and knowledge was evaluated. The questionnaires were anonymous and participation in the study was voluntary. Results: This research included 180 community pharmacists and 181 physicians. As many as 76 (42.0%) physicians stated they would prescribe an antimicrobial when unsure whether the infection was of viral or bacterial etiology. More than half of the participants considered family medicine doctors the greatest contributors to AMR (N = 216, 59.8%), followed by patients (N = 175, 48.5%). In questions focusing on knowledge, physicians scored significantly higher compared with pharmacists (4.06 ± 1.01 vs. 3.71 ± 1.08, p = 0.001). Conclusion: This research revealed practices among pharmacists and physicians that should be improved and it highlighted gaps in knowledge by both professions. More attention should be given to patient consultation when dispensing and prescribing an antimicrobial as this may reduce their contribution to AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Rusic
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Josko Bozic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Josipa Bukic
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Marino Vilovic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Marion Tomicic
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Ana Seselja Perisin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Dario Leskur
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Darko Modun
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Tin Cohadzic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Sinisa Tomic
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia.,The Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices, Zagreb, Croatia
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14
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Teixeira Rodrigues A, Roque F, Piñeiro-Lamas M, Falcão A, Figueiras A, Herdeiro MT. Effectiveness of an intervention to improve antibiotic-prescribing behaviour in primary care: a controlled, interrupted time-series study. J Antimicrob Chemother 2020; 74:2788-2796. [PMID: 31257435 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkz244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High rates of antibiotic misprescribing in primary care, with alarming clinical and economic consequences, highlight the urgent need for interventions to improve antibiotic prescribing in this setting. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness on antibiotic prescribing quality indicators of a multifaceted intervention targeting health professionals' and patients' behaviour regarding antibiotic use. METHODS We conducted a pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial in the catchment area covered by Portugal's Central Regional Health Administration. The intervention consisted of a multidisciplinary, multifaceted programme involving physicians, pharmacists and patients, and comprising outreach visits for physicians and pharmacists, and educational materials for health professionals and patients. The following were assessed: relative ratios of prescription of penicillins sensitive to β-lactamase, penicillin combinations including β-lactamase inhibitors, third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones; and the ratio of broad- to narrow-spectrum antibiotics. An interrupted time-series analysis for multiple-group comparisons was performed. The study protocol was registered on Clinical.trials.gov (NCT02173509). RESULTS The participation rate in the educational intervention was 64% (197/309 GPs) in a total of 25 counties. Statistically significant improvements were obtained, not only in the relative prescription of penicillins sensitive to β-lactamase (overall relative change of +896%) and penicillin combinations including β-lactamase inhibitors (-161%), but also in the ratio of broad- to narrow-spectrum antibiotics (-200%). Statistically significant results were also obtained for third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins, though only in the immediate term. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that quality indicators of antibiotic prescribing can be improved by tackling influences on behaviour including knowledge and attitudes surrounding physicians' clinical practice. Accordingly, these determinants must be considered when implementing interventions aimed at improving antibiotic prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Research (CEFAR), National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fátima Roque
- Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic of Guarda (UDI/IPG), Guarda, Portugal.,Health Science Research Centre, University of Beira Interior (CICS/UBI), Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Maria Piñeiro-Lamas
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública-CIBERESP), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Adolfo Figueiras
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública-CIBERESP), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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15
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Han M, Zhang X. Impact of medical professionals on Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: moderating effect of workload based on the panel data in China. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:670. [PMID: 32690017 PMCID: PMC7372746 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05535-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), causes a serious increase in morbidity, mortality and costs. Medical professionals play an important role in curbing AMR. Previous studies overlooked the impact of workload on the relationship between medical professionals and AMR. This study aimed to explore the relationship between medical professionals and the CRPA rate as well as the moderating effect of medical professionals’ workload on this relationship. Methods A provincial-level panel dataset from 2014 to 2017 was constructed. Medical professionals were measured by the numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, and clinical microbiologists per 1000 population. Workload was measured by the number of daily physician visits. Fixed effect model and hierarchical regression analysis were performed to explore the moderating effect of workload on medical professionals and the CRPA rate. Results The numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists and clinical technicians were significantly negative associated with the CRPA rate (coef. = − 0.889, − 0.775, − 1.176, and − 0.822; P = 0.003, 0.003, 0.011, and 0.007, respectively). Workload had a significant and positive moderating effect on physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, clinical technicians and the CRPA rate (coef. = 1.270, 1.400, 2.210, and 1.634; P = 0.004, 0.001, 0.035, and 0.003, respectively). Conclusions Increasing the number of medical professionals may help curb the CRPA rate. Measures aimed at reducing medical professionals’ workload should be implemented to further improve CRPA performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Han
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.13. Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xinping Zhang
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.13. Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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16
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Takamatsu A, Yao K, Murakami S, Tagashira Y, Hasegawa S, Honda H. Barriers to Adherence to Antimicrobial Stewardship Postprescription Review and Feedback For Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Agents: A Nested Case-Control Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa298. [PMID: 32832576 PMCID: PMC7434090 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postprescription review and feedback (PPRF) is one of the most common strategies in antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) intervention. However, disagreements between the prescribers and ASP personnel can occur. The aim of the present study was to identify the factors associated with nonadherence to PPRF intervention. Methods The present retrospective nested case-control study was performed at a tertiary care center, which has been conducting a once-weekly PPRF for carbapenems and piperacillin/tazobactam since 2014. Nonadherence to ASP recommendations was defined as the failure of the primary care team to modify or stop antimicrobial therapy 72 hours after the issuance of PPRF recommendations. Factors associated with nonadherence to PPRF intervention were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results In total, 2466 instances of PPRF in 1714 cases between April 2014 and September 2019 were found. The nonadherence rate was 5.9%, and 44 cases were found in which carbapenems or piperacillin/tazobactam continued to be used against PPRF recommendations. Factors associated with nonadherence to PPRF recommendations were a previous history of hospitalization within 90 days (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-5.81) and a rapidly fatal McCabe score at the time of PPRF intervention (aOR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.18-6.98). A review of the narrative comments in the electronic medical records indicated that common reasons for nonadherence were "the patient was sick" (n = 12; 27.3%) and "the antimicrobial seemed to be clinically effective" (n = 9; 20.5%). Conclusions Nonadherence to PPRF recommendations was relatively uncommon at the study institution. However, patients with a severe disease condition frequently continued to receive broad-spectrum antimicrobials against PPRF recommendations. Understanding physicians' cognitive process in nonadherence to ASP recommendations and ASP interventions targeting medical subspecialties caring for severely ill patients is needed to improve ASP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akane Takamatsu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Infection Control, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenta Yao
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shutaro Murakami
- Department of Infection Control, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Tagashira
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Infection Control, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Hasegawa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Infection Control, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Honda
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Infection Control, Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
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17
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Fernández-Álvarez I, Zapata-Cachafeiro M, Vázquez-Lago J, López-Vázquez P, Piñeiro-Lamas M, García Rodríguez R, Figueiras A. Pharmaceutical companies information and antibiotic prescription patterns: A follow-up study in Spanish primary care. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221326. [PMID: 31437201 PMCID: PMC6706057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To assess the impact of sources of drug information on antibiotic prescribing patterns (quantity and quality) among primary care physicians. Methods We conducted a cohort study on primary care physicians who were actively engaged in medical practice in 2010 in a region in north-west Spain (Galicia), fulfilling inclusion criteria (n = 2100). As the independent variable, we took the perceived utility of 6 sources of information on antibiotics, as measured by the validated KAAR-11 questionnaire. As dependent variables, we used: (1) a quality indicator (appropriate quality, defined as any case where 6 of the 12 indicators proposed by the European Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption Network [ESAC-Net] were better than the mean values for Spain); and, (2) a quantity indicator (high prescribing), defined as any case where defined daily doses (DDD) per 1 000 inhabitants per day of antibacterials for systemic use were higher than the mean values for Spain. The adjusted odds ratio for a change in the interquartile range (IqOR) for each sources of information on antibiotics was calculated using Generalized Linear Mixed Models. Results The questionnaire response rate was 68%. Greater perceived utility of pharmaceutical sales representatives increases the risk of having high prescribing (1/IqOR = 2.50 [95%CI: 1.63–3.66]) and reduces the probability of having appropriate quality (1/IqOR = 2.28 [95%CI: 1.77–3.01]). Greater perceived utility of clinical guidelines increases the probability of having appropriate quality (1/IqOR = 1.25 [95%CI: 1.02–1.54]) and reduces the probability of high prescribing (1/IqOR = 1.25 [95%CI: 1.02–1.54]). Conclusions Sources of information on antibiotics are an important determinant of the quantity and quality of antibiotic prescribing in primary care. Commercial sources of information influence prescribing negatively, and clinical guidelines are associated with better indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iria Fernández-Álvarez
- Preventive Medicine Service, Santiago de Compostela University Teaching Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maruxa Zapata-Cachafeiro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology & Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Juan Vázquez-Lago
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paula López-Vázquez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Piñeiro-Lamas
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology & Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | - Adolfo Figueiras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology & Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- * E-mail:
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18
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Knowledge, Attitudes and Intentions to Prescribe Antibiotics: A Structural Equation Modeling Study of Primary Care Institutions in Hubei, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16132385. [PMID: 31284381 PMCID: PMC6651188 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16132385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to measure the knowledge and attitudes of primary care physicians toward antibiotic prescriptions and their impacts on antibiotic prescribing. A questionnaire survey was conducted on 625 physicians from 67 primary care facilities in Hubei, China. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was applied to test the theoretical framework derived from the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) theory. Physicians’ knowledge, five sub-types of attitudes, and three sub-types of behavioral intentions towards antibiotic use were measured. Physicians had limited knowledge about antibiotic prescriptions (average 54.55% correct answers to 11 questions). Although they were generally concerned about antibiotic resistance (mean = 1.28, SD = 0.43), and were reluctant to be submissive to pressures from consumer demands for antibiotics (mean = 1.29, SD = 0.65) and the requirements of defensive practice (mean = 1.11, SD = 0.63), there was a lack of motivation to change prescribing practices (mean = −0.29, SD = 0.70) and strong agreement that other stakeholders should take the responsibility (mean = −1.15, SD = 0.45). The SEM results showed that poor knowledge, unawareness of antibiotic resistance, and limited motivation to change contributed to physicians’ high antibiotics prescriptions (p < 0.001). To curb antibiotic over-prescriptions, improving knowledge itself is not enough. The lack of motivation of physicians to change needs to be addressed through a systematic approach.
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19
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Broniatowski DA, Klein EY, May L, Martinez EM, Ware C, Reyna VF. Patients' and Clinicians' Perceptions of Antibiotic Prescribing for Upper Respiratory Infections in the Acute Care Setting. Med Decis Making 2019; 38:547-561. [PMID: 29847253 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x18770664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Reducing inappropriate prescribing is key to mitigating antibiotic resistance, particularly in acute care settings. Clinicians' prescribing decisions are influenced by their judgments and actual or perceived patient expectations. Fuzzy trace theory predicts that patients and clinicians base such decisions on categorical gist representations that reflect the bottom-line understanding of information about antibiotics. However, due to clinicians' specialized training, the categorical gists driving clinicians' and patients' decisions might differ, which could result in mismatched expectations and inefficiencies in targeting interventions. We surveyed clinicians and patients from 2 large urban academic hospital emergency departments (EDs) and a sample of nonpatient subjects regarding their gist representations of antibiotic decisions, as well as relevant knowledge and expectations. Results were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and multifactor regression. In total, 149 clinicians (47% female; 74% white), 519 online subjects (45% female; 78% white), and 225 ED patients (61% female; 56% black) completed the survey. While clinicians demonstrated greater knowledge of antibiotics and concern about side effects than patients, the predominant categorical gist for both patients and clinicians was "why not take a risk," which compares the status quo of remaining sick to the possibility of benefit from antibiotics. This gist also predicted expectations and prior prescribing in the nonpatient sample. Other representations reflected the gist that "germs are germs" conflating bacteria and viruses, as well as perceptions of side effects and efficacy. Although individually rational, reliance on the "why not take a risk" representation can lead to socially suboptimal results, including antibiotic resistance and individual patient harm due to adverse events. Changing this representation could alter clinicians' and patients' expectations, suggesting opportunities to reduce overprescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Broniatowski
- Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Eili Y Klein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, & Policy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Larissa May
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Elena M Martinez
- Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, & Policy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chelsea Ware
- Department of Medicine, The GW Medical Faculty Associates, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Valerie F Reyna
- Departments of Human Development and Psychology, Center for Behavioral Economics and Decision Research and Human Neuroscience Institute, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Guan X, Tian Y, Song J, Zhu D, Shi L. Effect of physicians' knowledge on antibiotics rational use in China's county hospitals. Soc Sci Med 2019; 224:149-155. [PMID: 30784853 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Irrational prescriptions of antibiotics have received significant international attention. In China, previous studies have described the impact of physicians' knowledge on antibiotic use, however, empirical studies of the relationship between physician knowledge and antibiotic prescription behavior are limited. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine physicians' knowledge of antibiotic and explore the effects of physicians' knowledge on rational antibiotic use in county hospitals in China. METHOD A sample of 360 physicians from 60 county hospitals was designed. Questionnaires were used to evaluate the physicians' knowledge of antibiotic use. We assessed the rationality of antibiotic use by evaluating the physicians' prescriptions. Antibiotic prescriptions were evaluated according to percentage of encounters where an antibiotic was prescribed, percentage of encounters with combined antibiotics prescriptions and the percentage of encounters treated in accordance with a standard treatment guideline. General linear model (GLM) was performed to analyze the factors influencing rational antibiotic use. RESULT A total of 58,512 valid antibiotic prescriptions by 280 physicians were included in the analysis. The average score of 62.2 The average percentage of encounters with an antibiotic and combined antibiotics prescribed were 70.1% and 40.2%, respectively. 37.9% of antibiotic prescriptions were in accordance with standard treatment guidelines. GLM analysis showed that physicians with scores exceeding 80 used less antibiotics than those who score lower than 60 (P = 0.005). The percentage of combination antibiotic therapies of those who achieved scores above 80 or in the range from 60 to 80 were lower than that of physicians in low score groups (P = 0.002, P = 0.025), and higher compliance with the guidelines than those received a score below 60 (P = 0.001, P = 0.047). CONCLUSION Results confirmed that physicians' knowledge significantly influences rational antibiotic use. Targeted training programs to promote physicians' knowledge of antibiotic especially at county hospitals in the western regions of China are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Guan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China; International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiafang Song
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Dawei Zhu
- International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China; China Center for Health Development Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Luwen Shi
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China; International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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21
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Machowska A, Stålsby Lundborg C. Drivers of Irrational Use of Antibiotics in Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 16:E27. [PMID: 30583571 PMCID: PMC6338985 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The unnecessary use of antibiotics and concomitant rapid growth of antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a widely acknowledged threat to global health, development, and sustainability. While the underlying cause of ABR is undoubtedly the overall volume of antibiotic use in general, irrational antibiotic use, which is influenced by several interrelated factors, is a major contributory factor. Here, we aimed to present and describe selected main drivers of irrational use of antibiotics in Europe. We performed a broad search of the current literature in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, as well as various institutional websites (World Health Organization, European Observatory, European Commission) to provide a new perspective on selected drivers of irrational antibiotic use in Europe. We also searched for relevant literature using snowballing, i.e., using reference lists of papers to identify additional papers. In this narrative review, we present that major factors among the general public driving antibiotic resistance are lack of public knowledge and awareness, access to antibiotics without prescription and leftover antibiotics, and knowledge attitude and perception of prescribers and dispensers, inadequate medical training, pharmaceutical promotion, lack of rapid and sufficient diagnostic tests, and patient⁻doctor interaction as major factors among healthcare providers. We further discuss initiatives that, if taken and implemented, can have an impact on and improve the current situation in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Machowska
- Global Health-Health Systems and Policy: Medicines, Focusing Antibiotics, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia Stålsby Lundborg
- Global Health-Health Systems and Policy: Medicines, Focusing Antibiotics, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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22
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Kuo KC, Yeh YC, Huang YH, Chen IL, Lee CH. Understanding physician antibiotic prescribing behavior for children with enterovirus infection. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202316. [PMID: 30192893 PMCID: PMC6128467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Our previous study demonstrated that pediatricians prescribe antibiotics without proper clinical justification to patients with enterovirus infection, although antibiotics are not effective in treating the infections caused by these viruses. To improve the quality of healthcare, we aim to evaluate the association of clinical and demographic characteristics of patients and further to identify the determining factors for prescribing antibiotics to children experiencing enterovirus infection. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of children who were hospitalized between January 2008 and December 2016 with a diagnosis of herpangina or hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD). We identified those children who were prescribed antibiotics for at least 24 hours during admission. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study to analyze data in order to determine the factors associated with pediatrician antibiotics prescribing for enterovirus infection. Results In the nine years of study period, the rate of antibiotics use was about 13% in these patients. A total of 3659 patients were enrolled during 2008~2012 and analyzed in detail. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and presence of leukocytosis in blood (WBC) were both significantly associated with pediatrician antibiotic prescribing for enterovirus infection (p<0.001). Between different specialistic devisions, there was significantly different proportion of antibiotics utilization for patients. In further analysis of antibiotics prescribing by Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve method, the level of CRP significantly had more the area under curve (0.708) compared with the count of WBC (p<0.05). Conclusions The present study indicates that higher serum level of CRP is strongly associated with pediatricians prescribing antibiotics for children experiencing herpangina or HFMD. Antibiotic prescribing is a complex process. Pediatricians should be more judicious in decision-making time by their specialistics. Our findings would shed new light on process and allay the concern about inappropriate antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuang-Che Kuo
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Yeh
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsien Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - I-Ling Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsiang Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Salm F, Schneider S, Schmücker K, Petruschke I, Kramer TS, Hanke R, Schröder C, Heintze C, Schwantes U, Gastmeier P, Gensichen J. Antibiotic prescribing behavior among general practitioners - a questionnaire-based study in Germany. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:208. [PMID: 29728063 PMCID: PMC5935909 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3120-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigates the barriers and facilitators of the use of antibiotics in acute respiratory tract infections by general practitioners (GPs) in Germany. Methods A multidisciplinary team designed and pre-tested a written questionnaire addressing the topics awareness of antimicrobial resistance (7 items), use of antibiotics (9 items), guidelines/sources of information (9 items) and sociodemographic factors (7 items), using a five-point-Likert-scale (“never” to “very often”). The questionnaire was mailed by postally to 987 GPs with registered practices in eastern Germany in May 2015. Results 34% (340/987) of the GPs responded to this survey. Most of the participants assumed a multifactorial origin for the rise of multidrug resistant organisms. In addition, 70.2% (239/340) believed that their own prescribing behavior influenced the drug-resistance situation in their area. GPs with longer work experience (> 25 years) assumed less individual influence on drug resistance than their colleagues with less than 7 years experience as practicing physicians (Odds Ratio [OR] 0.32, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.17–0.62; P < 0.001). 99.1% (337/340) of participants were familiar with the “delayed prescription” strategy to reduce antibiotic prescriptions. However, only 29.4% (74/340) answered that they apply it “often” or “very often”. GPs working in rural areas were less likely than those working in urban areas to apply delayed prescription. Conclusion The knowledge on factors causing antimicrobial resistance in bacteria is good among GPs in eastern Germany. However measures to improve rational prescription are not widely implemented yet. Further efforts have to be made in order to improve rational prescription of antibiotic among GPs. Nevertheless, there is a strong awareness of antimicrobial resistance among the participating GPs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3120-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Salm
- Institute for Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Breisacher Str. 115 B, D-79106, Freiburg, Germany. .,Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sandra Schneider
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Schmücker
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University, School of Medicine, Bachstrasse 18, D-07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Inga Petruschke
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University, School of Medicine, Bachstrasse 18, D-07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Tobias S Kramer
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Regina Hanke
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany.,Lindgrün GmbH, Cuxhavener Strasse 12, D-10555, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christin Schröder
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Heintze
- Institute Institute for General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schwantes
- Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Fehrbelliner Str. 38, D-16816, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Petra Gastmeier
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, German National Reference Center for the Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections, Hindenburgdamm 27, D-12203, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jochen Gensichen
- Institute for General Practice, Ludwig-Maxilmilians-University/University Hospital, Pettenkofer str.8/10, D-80336, Munich, Germany
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Basílio N, Cardoso S, Nunes JM, Laranjo L, Antunes MDL, Heleno B. Portuguese Primary Care physicians response rate in surveys: A systematic review. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2018; 64:272-280. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.64.03.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary Introduction: Surveys are a useful tool in primary care. However, low response rates can introduce selection bias, impairing both external and internal validity. The aim of this study was to assess the average response rate in surveys with Portuguese general practitioners (GPs). Method: We searched the Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, PsychInfo, SciELO, IndexRMP, RCAAP, Revista Portuguesa de Medicina Geral e Familiar, Acta Médica Portuguesa and the proceedings of conferences of general practice from incepton to December 2016. We included all postal, e-mail, telephone and personal surveys to primary care physicians without language restrictions. We did not assess risk of bias of included studies, since the main outcome was survey response rate. We performed planned subgroup analyses of the use of monetary incentives, the use of non-monetary incentives, survey delivery modes and prior contact with participants. Results: A total of 1,094 papers were identified and 37 studies were included in this review. The response rate in surveys done to Portuguese GPs was 56% (95CI 47-64%). There was substantial heterogeneity among included studies (I2=99%), but subgroup analysis did not explain this heterogeneity. Conclusion: Consistent with other published studies, the average response rate in surveys done with Portuguese GPs was 56%, with substantial variation among studies. Use of monetary incentives, one of the most effective strategies to increase response rates, was not present in any of the included studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José Mendes Nunes
- Agrupamento de Centros de Saúde, Portugal; Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Laranjo
- Macquarie University, Australia; Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal
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Simões AS, Alves DA, Gregório J, Couto I, Dias S, Póvoa P, Viveiros M, Gonçalves L, Lapão LV. Fighting antibiotic resistance in Portuguese hospitals: Understanding antibiotic prescription behaviours to better design antibiotic stewardship programmes. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2018; 13:226-230. [PMID: 29409949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Since physicians play an important role in antibiotic usage, it is vital to understand their antibiotic-prescribing behaviour and knowledge on antimicrobial resistance in order to develop and implement effective antibiotic stewardship interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate Portuguese physicians' knowledge and to understand prescription behaviours, difficulties and barriers in their antibiotic prescription process in order to promote better and well-adapted antibiotic stewardship policies. METHODS This study was conducted in 2016 using a self-administered questionnaire to physicians in two tertiary public hospitals from two different regions in Portugal. RESULTS Participating physicians [response rate 47.6% (30/63)] identified antibiotic resistance as a global problem; however, one-third did not recognise antibiotic resistance as a major problem on their own hospital. Factors that most influenced antibiotic prescription were 'microbiology laboratory results', 'patient clinical situation' and patient 'co-morbidities'. On the other hand, 'colleagues' opinion' and 'costs control' were considered as less determining factors. Regarding difficulties and bottlenecks in the antibiotic prescription process, participant physicians reported 'lack of (or delayed) microbiological results' and 'no access to antibiotic susceptibility patterns' as major barriers. 'Education and training' was considered the most effective intervention to improve antibiotic prescription. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the design and implementation of antibiotic stewardship interventions should provide better data management and sharing tools between physicians and the microbiology laboratory, especially through the creation of antimicrobial prescribing guidelines according to hospital epidemiology, and easy access to hospital antibiotic susceptibility patterns and epidemiological data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra S Simões
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Daniela A Alves
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Gregório
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Couto
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia Dias
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Póvoa
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, UNL, Lisbon, Portugal; Unidade de Cuidados Intensivos Polivalente, Hospital de São Francisco Xavier, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Viveiros
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal; Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís V Lapão
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira no 100, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
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Alawi MM, Darwesh BM. A stepwise introduction of a successful antimicrobial stewardship program. Experience from a tertiary care university hospital in Western, Saudi Arabia. Saudi Med J 2017; 37:1350-1358. [PMID: 27874151 PMCID: PMC5303774 DOI: 10.15537/smj.2016.12.15739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To analyze and evaluate the safety and cost-effectiveness of a gradually-implemented antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) in a tertiary care center. Methods Prospective data were collected from an ASP that was gradually introduced between April 2012 and December 2013 in 6 hospital departments, over successive periods of 3 months each. A multidisciplinary team supervised antibiotic use and regulated pharmacy dispensations of a list of restricted antimicrobials (RAs). Indicators were prospectively monitored and included hospital mortality as the safety indicator; incidence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) infections as the effectiveness indicator, RA cost savings as the cost-effectiveness indicator and RA consumption indicated the process implementation. Results Between 2012 and 2014, dispensations of RAs decreased by 67% and prescriptions by 75%; no increase in mortality rate was observed. Microbiologically, there was a decreasing trend of incidence across all monitored infections, but this was only significant for Acinetobacter baumannii (p=0.007). Cost analysis showed a decrease in expenditure for RAs, with an average monthly saving of up to 326,020USD. Conclusions Stepwise implementation of ASPs is a safe and cost-effective strategy for improving antibiotic prescribing practice and to reduce multi-drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha M Alawi
- Infection Control & Environmental Health Unit, Department of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. E-mail.
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Imanpour S, Nwaiwu O, McMaughan DK, DeSalvo B, Bashir A. Factors associated with antibiotic prescriptions for the viral origin diseases in office-based practices, 2006-2012. JRSM Open 2017; 8:2054270417717668. [PMID: 28811907 PMCID: PMC5542152 DOI: 10.1177/2054270417717668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To test the potential association between time spent with a doctor and antibiotic overprescriptions in case of the common cold, runny nose, bronchitis, chest colds, flu, sore throats, and fluid in the middle ear. Design Cross-sectional study Setting Office-based physicians in the US. Participants A total of 261,623 patient visits recorded to office-based physicians in the US. Main outcome measures The interest outcome was unnecessary antibiotic prescription. Results The analysis revealed five significant predictors of antibiotic prescriptions for suspected viral infections: length of doctor–patient encounter time, patient gender, spending time with a family medicine doctor, type of insurance, and the rate of antibiotic prescriptions per physician. For every additional minute a patient spent with a physician during a visit, the mean predicted probability of receiving unnecessary antibiotics decreased by 2.4%. Conclusions This study provided evidence that physicians continue to prescribe antibiotics in avoidable cases. Policies that would monitor antibiotic prescription in office-based settings should be considered in order to control spreading of antibiotic resistance and eventually improve population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Imanpour
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Obioma Nwaiwu
- University of Arkansas for Medical Science, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | | | | | - Adnan Bashir
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
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Nakwatumbah S, Kibuule D, Godman B, Haakuria V, Kalemeera F, Baker A, Mubita M. Compliance to guidelines for the prescribing of antibiotics in acute infections at Namibia's national referral hospital: a pilot study and the implications. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2017; 15:713-721. [PMID: 28425828 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2017.1320220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sub-optimal antibiotic prescribing remains a public health concern in Namibia. The objective was to determine the level and predictors of compliance to guidelines in the prescribing of antibiotics in acute infections at a national referral hospital in Namibia to improve future prescribing. METHODS An analytical cross-sectional survey design. The clinical records of patients receiving care were reviewed. Prescribing practices were assessed using a self- administered questionnaire with reference to Namibia Standard Treatment Guidelines (NSTG). RESULTS The majority of prescriptions (62%) complied with the NSTGs; however, lower than national targets (95%). Most prescriptions were empiric and prescribers typically made reference to the NSTG (58%). Diagnosed infections were principally respiratory infections (58%) and penicillins were the most used antibiotics. Good concurrence between signs and symptoms with the diagnosis indicated on the prescription - OR=5.2 (95% CI: 1.4, 19.2), a diagnosis of upper respiratory tract (p=0.001), oral-dental OR=0.1(95% CI: 0.03,0.3) and urogenital infections OR=0.3(95% CI: 0.1,0.95) and the prescribing of penicillins (p=0.001) or combination antibiotics and amphenicols were independent predictors of compliance to the NSTGs. The main behaviours associated with antibiotic prescribing were patient influences, clinical state, and access to guidelines. CONCLUSIONS Compliance with NSTGs is suboptimal. Prescribing of combination antibiotics, penicillins and diagnosis of oral dental, genitourinary and ear, nose and throat infections were important predictors for NSTG compliance. There is a need to implement antibiotic indicators and stewardship programmes, and ensure access to NSTGs, to improve future antibiotic prescribing in Namibia.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nakwatumbah
- a School of Pharmacy , Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia , Windhoek , Namibia
| | - D Kibuule
- a School of Pharmacy , Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia , Windhoek , Namibia
| | - B Godman
- b Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology , Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden.,c Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Strathclyde , Glasgow , UK
| | - V Haakuria
- a School of Pharmacy , Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia , Windhoek , Namibia
| | - F Kalemeera
- a School of Pharmacy , Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia , Windhoek , Namibia
| | - A Baker
- c Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences , University of Strathclyde , Glasgow , UK
| | - M Mubita
- a School of Pharmacy , Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia , Windhoek , Namibia
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Rawson TM, Moore LSP, Tivey AM, Tsao A, Gilchrist M, Charani E, Holmes AH. Behaviour change interventions to influence antimicrobial prescribing: a cross-sectional analysis of reports from UK state-of-the-art scientific conferences. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2017; 6:11. [PMID: 28101333 PMCID: PMC5237267 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-017-0170-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To improve the quality of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions the application of behavioural sciences supported by multidisciplinary collaboration has been recommended. We analysed major UK scientific research conferences to investigate AMS behaviour change intervention reporting. METHODS Leading UK 2015 scientific conference abstracts for 30 clinical specialties were identified and interrogated. All AMS and/or antimicrobial resistance(AMR) abstracts were identified using validated search criteria. Abstracts were independently reviewed by four researchers with reported behavioural interventions classified using a behaviour change taxonomy. RESULTS Conferences ran for 110 days with >57,000 delegates. 311/12,313(2.5%) AMS-AMR abstracts (oral and poster) were identified. 118/311(40%) were presented at the UK's infectious diseases/microbiology conference. 56/311(18%) AMS-AMR abstracts described behaviour change interventions. These were identified across 12/30(40%) conferences. The commonest abstract reporting behaviour change interventions were quality improvement projects [44/56 (79%)]. In total 71 unique behaviour change functions were identified. Policy categories; "guidelines" (16/71) and "service provision" (11/71) were the most frequently reported. Intervention functions; "education" (6/71), "persuasion" (7/71), and "enablement" (9/71) were also common. Only infection and primary care conferences reported studies that contained multiple behaviour change interventions. The remaining 10 specialties tended to report a narrow range of interventions focusing on "guidelines" and "enablement". CONCLUSION Despite the benefits of behaviour change interventions on antimicrobial prescribing, very few AMS-AMR studies reported implementing them in 2015. AMS interventions must focus on promoting behaviour change towards antimicrobial prescribing. Greater focus must be placed on non-infection specialties to engage with the issue of behaviour change towards antimicrobial use.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. M. Rawson
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN UK
| | - L. S. P. Moore
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0HS UK
| | - A. M. Tivey
- Imperial College School of Medicine, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ UK
| | - A. Tsao
- Imperial College School of Medicine, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ UK
| | - M. Gilchrist
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0HS UK
| | - E. Charani
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN UK
| | - A. H. Holmes
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0HS UK
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