Inappropriate treatment of hospital-acquired infections and associated factors among admitted adults in Wolaita Zone hospitals, Southern Ethiopia: A multi-center cross-sectional study

The prevalence of inappropriate treatment of HAIs among admitted adults in the current study settings was high. Comorbidities, treatment ward type, culture testing, and the provision of clinical pharmacy services were significantly associated with inappropriate treatment. Clinicians should give particular attention to patients with comorbidities and those receiving care in surgical wards. Health facilities should enhance microbiological diagnostic services to promote evidence-based therapy. Additionally, clinical pharmacy services should be expanded across hospital wards to support efforts in reducing inappropriate treatment of HAIs. These findings underscore the urgent need for multifaceted interventions to improve patient care and combat antimicrobial resistance in this setting.