Knowledge, attitude, and practices of hospital and community pharmacy staff towards antimicrobial stewardship program in Islamabad, Pakistan

Introduction: Worldwide, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing threat to public health. Considerable evidence suggests that the knowledge and attitude among the hospital and community pharmacy staff (HCPS) can play a vital role in the evidence-based dispensing of antibiotics. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of HCPS towards antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) in the Capital City of Pakistan. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to May 2022 among HCPS (n = 385) using a validated questionnaire. Various statistical tests were used to analyze the data. Results: Overall response rate was 96% (385/400). Most participants (55.3%) were aged 18-24 years, with 40% holding an undergraduate education, and 32.2% were licensed pharmacists. A significant proportion (61.6%) worked in community pharmacies. Overall, participants exhibited good knowledge (median (IQR) = 4 (3-5)) and practice (22 (20-23)) related to rational antibiotic use and dispensing, with an excellent attitude (5 (1-7)) toward ASP. KAP scores varied significantly across demographic factors such as gender, age, education level, occupation, and pharmacy type. Conclusion: The participants exhibited good knowledge and positive attitudes toward ASP. However, practices were substantially up to the mark. Based on the current study’s results, the drug regulatory authority of Pakistan should reinforce regulations on the dispensing of non-prescription antibiotics. Moreover, HCPS should be more vigilant regarding the consequences of AMR.