Physicians' knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward antimicrobial prescribing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health threat.
• Effective antimicrobial prescribing is essential for patient outcomes and preventing resistance.
• Understanding physician perspectives is key to developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of physicians in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, regarding antimicrobial prescribing practices.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to appropriate antimicrobial use in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to physicians in Riyadh hospitals.
• Data were collected between June and August 2013.
• Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 12 software.

Main Results:

• A significant proportion of physicians (56.1%) perceived antimicrobial resistance as a major problem in daily practice.
• Inappropriate empirical therapy and excessive antimicrobial use were identified as key contributors to resistance.
• Many physicians (44.8%) lacked confidence in their antimicrobial prescribing knowledge, highlighting a need for further education.

Conclusions:

• Physicians in Riyadh demonstrate a need for enhanced training and education in antimicrobial prescribing.
• Current local antimicrobial guidelines require revision to improve their relevance and utility for practitioners.
• Strengthening infectious diseases services and physician education are vital for combating antimicrobial resistance.