Knowledge, attitudes and practices of antimicrobial resistance among health care professionals at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital.

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global public health threat that undermines the effective treatment of infectious diseases and increases morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in antimicrobial prescribing, administration, and infection prevention practices, making their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) key determinants in combating AMR. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antimicrobial resistance among healthcare professionals at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital. A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study design was employed. Data were collected from 127 healthcare professionals, including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists, using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics summarised KAP levels, while inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression, examined relationships between variables. The findings revealed that healthcare professionals had generally good knowledge of antimicrobial resistance (mean score = 7.20, SD = 1.62), with 52% demonstrating good knowledge. Attitudes toward antimicrobial stewardship were largely positive, with 62% of respondents exhibiting favourable perceptions. However, antimicrobial practices were inconsistent, with only about half of respondents demonstrating good practices. Correlation analysis showed a weak but significant relationship between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.227, p = 0.010), no significant relationship between knowledge and practices (r = -0.007, p = 0.936), and a moderate positive relationship between attitudes and practices (r = 0.449, p < 0.001). Regression analysis identified attitude as the only significant predictor of antimicrobial practices (β = 0.461, p < 0.001). The study concludes that although knowledge and attitudes toward antimicrobial resistance are generally adequate, they do not consistently translate into appropriate practices. Attitude plays a critical role in influencing behaviour, highlighting the need for antimicrobial stewardship interventions that incorporate behavioural change strategies alongside education. Strengthening institutional support systems, improving access to diagnostic services, and promoting multidisciplinary collaboration are essential for improving antimicrobial practices.