Internal Medicine Resident Perspectives Regarding Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic Usage

Area of Science:

• Internal Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Education

Background:

• Broad-spectrum antibiotic (BSA) use is common in internal medicine.
• Understanding resident perspectives on BSA usage is crucial for optimizing antimicrobial stewardship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore internal medicine residents' perspectives on broad-spectrum antibiotic usage.
• To identify factors influencing resident decision-making regarding BSA prescribing.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing focus groups.
• Discussions centered on resident experiences and viewpoints concerning BSA use.

Main Results:

• Residents acknowledged BSA-associated adverse events.
• A disconnect was observed between awareness of adverse events and their perceived impact on patient morbidity and mortality.
• Residents were more inclined to prescribe BSA in cases of diagnostic uncertainty and critically ill patients.

Conclusions:

• Internal medicine residents' understanding of BSA risks may not fully translate into clinical practice regarding patient outcomes.
• Diagnostic uncertainty and patient acuity are key drivers for BSA use among residents.
• Further education on the long-term consequences of BSA is warranted to improve antimicrobial stewardship.