A SURVEY ON THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES REGARDING ANTIBIOTIC USAGE AND RESISTANCE AMONG THE MEDICAL STUDENTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Antibiotic resistance is an escalating global health threat, leading to treatment failure, prolonged hospitalizations, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality. Medical students, as future healthcare providers, play a crucial role in curbing its spread through appropriate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). This study evaluated the KAP of medical students regarding antibiotic usage and resistance at a tertiary care hospital. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 third to fifth year medical students using a structured questionnaire assessing antibiotic knowledge, perceptions of resistance, and self-reported prescribing behaviors. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and Spearman’s rank correlation. Only 65% of students correctly identified mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, and 50% recognized the long-term consequences of overuse. While 70% expressed concern over the global impact, 30% perceived it as a greater issue in other regions. Notably, 40% reported inappropriate prescribing, particularly for viral infections. A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and practices (rho = 0.45, p < 0.01). These findings highlight significant gaps requiring targeted educational interventions, emphasizing antibiotic stewardship, resistance mechanisms, and clinical guideline application. Strengthening curricula, enhancing mentorship, and incorporating evidence-based teaching are essential to prepare future healthcare professionals to combat antibiotic resistance effectively.