An Appraisal of Nurses' Knowledge and Attitude Toward Antibiotic Stewardship Programs in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Antibiotic resistance is a critical global health concern, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified antimicrobial resistance as one of the top ten threats to global health, emphasizing the need for effective antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) to optimize antibiotic use and curb resistance (WHO, 2023).
Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in the administration of antibiotics and monitoring of patient outcomes. Their active participation in ASPs is essential for the success of these programs. However, studies have indicated that nurses are often underutilized in stewardship efforts. A study by Hayes et al. (2023) highlighted that understanding nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is crucial for designing effective ASP initiatives, as nurses' involvement can significantly influence patient care and safety.
Despite the recognized importance of nurse involvement in ASPs, there is limited research focusing on their specific contributions and the factors influencing their participation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Nurses Association (ANA) have emphasized the need to redefine ASPs by including bedside nurses in stewardship initiatives, acknowledging that a multidisciplinary approach is essential (CDC & ANA, 2023).
In Nigeria, the challenge of antibiotic resistance is compounded by factors such as self-medication, lack of regulation, and limited resources. The University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, as a tertiary healthcare institution, serves a diverse patient population, making it imperative to assess and enhance the role of nurses in ASPs within this context. Understanding the current state of nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward ASPs in this setting can inform targeted interventions to improve antibiotic use and combat resistance.
Statement of the Problem
Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to patient outcomes and healthcare systems globally. In the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, the effectiveness of ASPs is contingent upon the active involvement of all healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. However, there is a paucity of data regarding nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward these programs within the institution.
Preliminary observations suggest variability in nurses' understanding of antibiotic stewardship principles, which may lead to inconsistent practices in antibiotic administration and monitoring. This inconsistency can contribute to suboptimal patient outcomes and further exacerbate the issue of antibiotic resistance.
Furthermore, existing studies have primarily focused on physicians and pharmacists, with limited attention to the nursing perspective. A study by Abbo et al. (2023) indicated that nurse practitioners' attitudes and perceptions significantly impact antibiotic use and resistance, underscoring the need for comprehensive assessments that include nursing staff.
Without a clear understanding of the current knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward ASPs, it is challenging to develop effective educational and policy interventions. Addressing this gap is essential to enhance the efficacy of ASPs and improve patient care outcomes in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the current level of knowledge among nurses at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital regarding antibiotic stewardship principles.
- To evaluate the attitudes of these nurses toward participation in ASPs.
- To identify barriers and facilitators influencing nurses' involvement in ASPs within the hospital.
Research Questions
- What is the current level of knowledge among nurses at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital concerning antibiotic stewardship?
- What are the prevailing attitudes of these nurses toward participation in ASPs?
- What factors hinder or facilitate nurses' involvement in ASPs within the hospital?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital have a high level of knowledge regarding antibiotic stewardship principles.
- Positive attitudes toward ASPs are prevalent among these nurses.
- There are significant barriers affecting nurses' participation in ASPs within the hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on registered nurses employed at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. It aims to assess their knowledge and attitudes toward ASPs and identify factors influencing their participation. The study does not include other healthcare professionals or institutions, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data may introduce response biases.
Definitions of Terms
Antibiotic Stewardship Programs (ASPs): Coordinated interventions designed to improve and measure the appropriate use of antibiotic agents by promoting the selection of optimal antibiotic drug regimens, including dosing, duration of therapy, and route of administration.
Knowledge: The information and understanding that nurses possess regarding antibiotic stewardship principles and practices.
Attitude: The feelings or perceptions that nurses hold toward participation in ASPs.
Barriers: Factors that impede nurses' involvement in ASPs.
Facilitators: Factors that promote or enhance nurses' participation in ASPs.
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