Exploring antibiotic prescribing practices in multidisciplinary hospitals in the Republic of Moldova

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a major global challenge, amplified by the excessive and incorrect use of antibiotics. Th is study conducted in the Republic of Moldova investigated antibiotic prescribing practices in multidisciplinary hospitals to identify correlations between these practices and the increase in AMR. Th e study included a sample of 222 patients from four hospitals, selected based on the availability of a bacteriological laboratory and bed capacity. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires, which evaluated the type, duration, and changes in antibiotic therapy, as well as the results of bacteriological tests. Th e analysis revealed a high prevalence of antibiotic prescriptions, at 86.5%, with higher rates in urology (96%) and intensive care (92%) departments. Approximately 70% of patients hospitalized for 3-5 days received an antibiotic, while those hospitalized for more than 10 days were three times more likely to receive two or more antibiotics. The justification for these prescriptions was missing in most cases, signaling an urgent need for improvement in prescribing practices. Third-generation cephalosporins were the most frequently prescribed antibiotics (44.9%), followed by fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides. Th e majority of the prescribed antibiotics were classified as „Watch” according to the WHO AWARe classification, indicating a need for intensive monitoring due to the risk of AMR. Th e results underscore the importance of implementing effective antimicrobial management programs and enhancing the monitoring of antibiotic use to combat the rise in AMR.