Evaluation of knowledge, attitudes and practices of human healthcare students about antimicrobial drug use and resistance: a cross-sectional study in University of Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

Inappropriate consumption of antimicrobial drugs is the main cause of antibiotic resistance which is currently the most critical global public health challenge. This research aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of antimicrobial drug use and resistance among 576 students. Data were collected through a questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were performed to characterize the sampled population. Ethical clearance and students’ informed consent were obtained. Most of the students were within the age range of 21-25 years and have excellent knowledge of antimicrobial use. Also, most of them had very good knowledge of antimicrobial resistance. From the data analysed 445 (77.3%) agreed that students should get special training on the use of antimicrobials; 120 (20.8%) students agreed that education on the use of the antimicrobial drugs is necessary; 115 (20.0%) believed that prohibiting the use of antimicrobials without a valid prescription is a solution. The knowledge level on antimicrobial drug use and resistance was excellent 329 (57.1%). Most of the students' attitude as regards the usage of antimicrobials was found to be average. High rates of incorrect antimicrobial usage practices were noticed and the attitude was average. The development of an effective antimicrobial stewardship program is a necessity.