Impact of UG Training on Understanding the Severity of Antimicrobial Resistance

Background: Antibiotic resistance is increasing at an alarming rate. Many reasons are there which need urgent attention toward this problem. Efforts in all directions are required to address this serious issue. The irrational prescribing habits of physicians lead to increasing morbidity, mortality, and treatment costs. One of the key components of the system is the prescriber and their practices. In the present study, efforts were made to know the understanding of the medical students about the severity of the problem and to find out the focus area that needs to be modified. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among the second-year medical students of a teaching hospital after the ethical approval study was explained to the student and written consent was taken. The questionnaire was given before and after exposure to formal lectures on antimicrobial agents. The collected data was analyzed. Results: It was clear that inappropriate use of antimicrobials causes antimicrobial resistance (AMR) (87.3%) and can harm patients (82%). Interactive patient-oriented problem-solving modules on the internet (35%) and small group problem-based learning are preferred by (32%) students. Preparedness about antimicrobial use was seen only in 50% of the students in a few essential aspects. Learning during the medical course only does the purpose of sensitization, for the thorough knowledge repeated exposure is essential. Conclusion: Most of the students were partially aware of the AMR. The only concern was their casual attitude regarding antibiotic use. Further educational interventions are necessary to improve their understanding and perceptions of antibiotic resistance, as well as their attitude toward antibiotic use. How to cite this article: Deogaonkar A,Dawane J. Impact of UG Training on Understanding the Severity of Antimicrobial Resistance. J Assoc Physicians India 2023;71(11):14-18.