Prescription of antibiotics as a source of emerging antibiotic resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical staff in the Dassa-Glazoué and Savalou-Bantè's health zones (Benin, West Africa)

Abstract

Background and Aim: Antibiotics have been some great effective molecules against infections since their discovery. The excessive use and misuse of antibiotics have resulted in a selection of antibiotic-resistant strains. Among the reasons involved, the prescription of antibiotics can be important. The present study aimed to contribute to the reduction of antibiotic resistance due to the misuse of antibiotics. Materials and Methods: A knowledge, attitude, and practice survey of health professionals from Savalou-Bante (230) and Dassa-Glazoué (100) health zones was performed about the prescription of antibiotics. Results: About 53% of respondents in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè were assistant nursing and only 3% of them were specialized physicians. The other respondents were physicians (3%), midwives (10%), and nurses (31%). Forty-five percent of the respondents were nurses and only 5% of them were specialized physicians in Savalou-Bantè. However, all these health professionals prescribe antibiotics. The first-line antibiotics prescribed were penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, aminoglycosides, and quinolones. These health professionals usually have no knowledge of the mechanism of action of these antibiotics. The antibiotics prescribed mostly were for ear, nose, and throat and upper respiratory infections (80% in Dassa-Glazoué and 79% in Savalou-Bantè). The most commonly used dosage form was tablets (58%) in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè and the injectable form in the sanitary zone of Dassa-Glazoué. Conclusion: It is important to implement a policy of rational use of antibiotics to reduce the excessive and misuse of antibiotics and prevent antibiotic resistance.