The Pattern of Antimicrobial Prescription at a Tertiary Health Center in Egypt: A Point Survey and Implications

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial misuse leads to significant consequences, including antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and adverse drug events.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends antimicrobial surveillance to optimize antimicrobial utilization.
• This study addresses the critical need for understanding antimicrobial prescribing patterns in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of antimicrobial use at Mansoura University Hospitals (MUH), Egypt.
• To identify common indications and antimicrobial classes prescribed.
• To assess the documentation and availability of local guidelines for antimicrobial prescriptions.

Main Methods:

• A point prevalence survey (PPS) adapted from the European surveillance methodology was employed.
• Data collection occurred daily over a two-week period.
• The survey focused on patients receiving antimicrobial therapy.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence rate of antimicrobial prescription (79.15%) was observed among 300 patients.
• Surgical prophylaxis and community-acquired infections were the primary indications for antimicrobial use.
• Aminopenicillin ± β-lactamase inhibitors were the most frequently prescribed initial antimicrobial group, with combined antimicrobial use at 46.6%.

Conclusions:

• The high prevalence of antimicrobial prescribing at MUH necessitates urgent interventions.
• Recommendations include reviewing antimicrobial indications, implementing local prescription guidelines, and establishing an antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP).
• Optimizing infection control measures is crucial for mitigating AMR and improving patient outcomes.