DIFFERENCES IN PRESCRIBING ANTIBIOTICS BETWEEN SURGICAL AND NON-SURGICAL SPECIALISTS
Abstract:
Introduction: One of the biggest medical problems for clinicians is to establish antibiotic
treatment. Irrational prescribing and abuse is an explanation of failures in the treatment of infectious
diseases. This fact has led to the emergence of antibiotic resistance, which can seriously threaten public
health. The purpose of our study was to identify antibiotic prescribing practices of doctors of various
specializations, as well as to identify knowledge and attitudes related to microbial resistance. Materials
and Methods: The study was based on a questionnaire which was distributed to doctors of different
medical and surgical specialties in state hospitals. Results: The questionnaire was filled out by 110
physicians (response rate 84.6%). 73.6% of physicians found that too many prescriptions of antibiotics
are issued needlessly. Most antibiotics used by doctors were cephalosporins, followed by
aminopenicillins. Some of the factors involved in bacterial resistance include self-medication,
prescribing inappropriate antibiotics, and increased and prolonged hospitalization. The problem of
antibiotic resistance is a major one (89.1%). Conclusions: This study identified medical concepts related
to antibiotics and bacterial resistance. Limitation of bacterial resistance to antibiotics is necessary and
can be accomplished by reducing the prescription of antibiotics, and by informing doctors (treatment
protocols, conferences) to establish an effective antibiotic treatment.
full text article in English (.EN) |