A cross-sectional observational study of postoperative restricted antibiotic utilization, rationality, and cost analysis in a tertiary care teaching hospital

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an alarming condition that has been arising due to many interconnected factors, in particular, the use and misuse of antimicrobials. It is more prevalent in developing countries like India where there is a huge burden of infectious diseases. There has been insufficient research data to conclusively comment on the judicious use of antimicrobials. Therefore, this study is designed to assess the judicious use of antimicrobials on the basis of modified Kunin’s criteria and analyse the cost and its rationality. Methods: Cross sectional observational study wherein patient data for last 2 year postoperative patients was analyzed. Results: In the present study, a significant number of patients (82.76%) the restricted antimicrobials were used judiciously and majority of then (42.19%) incurred a cost of <10000 INR. Conclusions: The study shows that with appropriate and strict measures it is possible to limit the use of restricted antimicrobials. This further helps to decrease emerging antimicrobial resistance and also decrease the cost incurred by the patients during their hospital stay.