Antimicrobial stewardship knowledge and perception among physicians and pharmacists at leading tertiary teaching hospitals in Zambia: implications for future policy and practice

Abstract

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is a key strategy promoting rational antimicrobial use. In Zambia, information on health professionals’ knowledge, attitude, and practice of AMS is limited. This study was undertaken to address this at Zambia’s leading specialized teaching hospitals. Descriptive, cross-sectional study involved 137 physicians and 61 pharmacists. AMS knowledge was relatively low among physicians (51%) and pharmacists (39%). Few physicians (9%) and pharmacists (20%) demonstrated sufficient knowledge of the basic principles of AMS. Physicians’ and pharmacists’ knowledge levels were significantly associated with years of practice, job position or practice rank, and previous AMS training. The majority (95%) perceived AMR as a current problem in their practise. Most physicians (92%) and pharmacists (86%) had not undertaken AMS training before. All indicated the need for context-specific educational interventions to promote AMS in Zambia. Despite positive perceptions, basic knowledge of AMS was relatively low. Context-specific educational interventions and capacity building are needed to address AMS gaps.

Keywords:

• Antimicrobial stewardship
• knowledge
• perceptions
• physicians
• pharmacists
• Zambia

Acknowledgment

The authors acknowledge the technical assistance of Medicines Utilisation Research in Africa (MURIA) network and colleagues, including the Brighton-Lusaka Health Link (BLHL).

Disclosure statement

All authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Notes on contributors

Aubrey Chichonyi Kalungia is a research fellow in health professions education.

Haabingozi Mwambula is a pharmacist and AMS advocate.

Derick Munkombwe is a researcher in infectious diseases and AMR.

Sarah Marshall is head of global pharmacy program.

Natalie Schellack is professor and head of clinical pharmacy.

Claire May is a principal lecturer.

Anja St. Claire Jones is a consultant pharmacist in the NHS. Brian Godman is professor of pharmacology.