ABSTRACT

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to pose serious and increasing threat to global health. As future prescribers, medical students need to have adequate knowledge about appropriate use of antibiotics. Understanding their level of awareness is essential to implement changes in training of these students regarding antibiotic prescription practices.

Aim: To assess the knowledge and attitude of second-year MBBS students regarding antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out over a period of three months in a tertiary care centre among second-year MBBS students, after receiving approval from the ethics Committee of the institute. Simple random sampling method was done for selection of the study participants. Pre-validated and structured questionnaire was used for collection of data which were distributed via Google Forms. Knowledge-related items were assessed using dichotomous responses, while attitude was evaluated on a five-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages and mean scores were used for analysis.

Results: The total number of students who participated in the study was 120. Moderate level of understanding was observed with a mean knowledge score of 7.6 (63%). Notable misconceptions were identified: 64% believed that antibiotics hasten the recovery from common cold and 82.5% considered them to be effective against viral infections. Only 28% could interpret antibiotic susceptibility testing reports accurately. Additionally, 57.5% perceived intravenous administration as the most effective route. Despite these issues, students showed positive attitudes toward rational antibiotic use, institutional antibiotic policies and the requirement of patient education.

Conclusion: Although attitude toward antibiotic stewardship was positive, there was a gap in knowledge among the students. Strengthening undergraduate teaching through incorporation of stewardship practices in the curriculum is necessary to encourage good prescribing practices and to prevent the progression of AMR.