Knowledge, Perceptions, and Practices of Community Pharmacy Professionals Regarding Antimicrobial Resistance Stewardship in Dessie Town: Mixed Method
Author(s): Solomon Ahmed Mohammed*, Abebe Getie Faris, Abel Andualem, Bedlu Linger, Segenet Zewdie, Yeshambel Asmare and Kassahun Bogale
Abstract
Background: The increased drug resistant bacterium leads to an upsurge in morbidity and mortality from bacterial infections. Antimicrobial resistance is a threat to public health. This study assessed the knowledge, perception, and practice of antimicrobial resistance stewardship (AMS) among community pharmacy professionals in Dessie town.
Methods: A community based explanatory sequential mixed method was employed from 03/06/2021 to 03/07/2021. The quantitative method employed a community based cross sectional study design and all registered professionals were included. Statistical package for social sciences version 20 used for descriptive and inferential statistics. Then, a phenomenological study design was for a qualitative study and content analysis was performed.
Result: More than half (67 (54.9%): 95% CI (47.6%-63%)), (72 (59%): 95% CI (50.9%-68%)), and (70 (57.4%): 95% CI (49.2%-64.8%)) of community pharmacy professionals had good knowledge, perception and practice on AMS respectively. Being males (AOR: 2.72, 95% CI (1.20- 6.18)) and monthly income less than 5000 birrs (AOR: 0.21, 95% CI (0.05-0.88)) was associated with knowledge on AMS. Perception of AMS was associated with males (AOR: 2.36, 95% CI (1.04-5.34)). The practice of AMS was associated with male (AOR: 4.09, 95% CI (1.64-10.17)), degree educational level (AOR: 4.09, 95% CI (1.13-21.60)) and job experience less than one year (AOR: 14.75, 95% CI (1.52-142.98)). Key informants stated that inappropriate use of antibiotics resulted in depletion of normal flora and occurrence of a hypersensitivity reaction. Despite they did not participate in any AMS programs; the program must be practiced by all health professionals. They also stated the poor dispensing practice.
Conclusion: More than half of community pharmacy professionals had good knowledge, perception, and practice on AMS. Key informants had good knowledge and perception of AMS. However, they were not practicing rational use of antibiotics. Implementation of AMS programs in community pharmacies, interdisciplinary teamwork, and increased participation of pharmacy professionals in AMS awareness campaigns