Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Undergraduate Students at Makerere University College of Health Sciences regarding Antimicrobial Resistance

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobials are medicines used to treat and prevent infections for example antibiotics. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when disease causing microorganisms become able to adapt and grow in the presence of the medicines that would normally kill them. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a complex public health problem globally, which is mainly fueled by inappropriate and irrational use of antimicrobials. Rational use of antimicrobials is the major strategy for the prevention of AMR, which can be achieved by changing the behavior and knowledge of healthcare professionals. Objective: Assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of undergraduate students at Makerere University College of Health Sciences regarding Antimicrobial resistance Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in May among final year undergraduate students at Makerere University College of Health Sciences. Stratified sampling was used to get 298 study participants from the strata (all the 5 pre-existing schools). Including final year students from all schools in the college ensures a more representative sample and provides a comprehensive understanding of AMR across all disciplines in health-care and targeting final year students allows for assessment of their readiness for professional practice and the potential for early intervention to improve their knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding AMR. An interviewer administered questionnaire developed using Kobotoolbox was used to collect data that was analyzed using STATA. The data was presented in frequency tables with proportions and percentages. Results: Out of 298 participants, majority 60.40% were males and 75.84% were aged between 22 – 25 years. All of the 298 participants had heard about AMR. 82.89% of the participants agreed that AMR is increasing and 96.31% agreed that sufficient knowledge is important in combating AMR. 59.40% of the participants practiced self-medication. Conclusion: The participants had good knowledge and attitudes however they had sub-optimal practices.