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Long-term care facility (LTCF) residents are twice as likely to receive antibiotics compared with elderly living in the community, and studies have reported up to half of prescriptions in LTCFs as inappropriate. To identify factors contributing to general and inappropriate antibiotic prescription among LTCF residents with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). In this prospective, multicentric, observational study, residents with LRTIs were recruited among 32 LTCFs in Western Switzerland during winter 2022–2023. Residents underwent lung ultrasound (LUS) within three days of LRTI onset, serving as the pneumonia diagnosis reference standard. Multivariate logistic regression and backward selection were used with P < 0.1 cut-off to identify factors among demographics, vital signs, diagnostic tests, and LTCF characteristics associated with (i) antibiotic prescription and (ii) inappropriate prescription. A total of 114 residents were included, 63% female, median age 87 years. Fifty-nine (52%) residents underwent diagnostic tests: 50 (44%) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for respiratory viruses and 16 (14%) blood test with C-reactive protein and/or blood count. Sixty-three (55%) residents received antibiotics. Factors associated with antibiotic prescriptions were Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale score ≥7, oxygen saturation <92%, performing a blood test, rural LTCFs, and female physician. Among residents receiving antibiotics, 48 (74%) had inappropriate prescriptions, with performance of respiratory virus PCR test as the only protective factor. Whereas half of LRTI residents received antibiotics, falling within lower ranges of European LTCFs prescription rates (53–80%), most antibiotic prescriptions were inappropriate. Utilization of diagnostic tests correlates with lower overall and inappropriate prescription, advocating for their use to optimize prescription practices in LTCFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance. Overprescribing in dental practice has been reported. This study aimed to describe patterns of antibiotic prescription for treating and preventing odontogenic infections based on reports from Lithuanian dentists. Materials and Methods: Questionnaires were sent to all 4751 Lithuanian dentists registered in the database of the Lithuanian Dental Chamber who had consented to participate in surveys. The questionnaire addressed antibiotic prescription preferences for the treatment and prevention of various dental pathologies. The statistical analysis included chi-square tests and a factor analysis to evaluate prescription frequences in different clinical scenarios considering the respondents' specialty and age. Results: Of 647 responses, 497 were from general dentists, 35 from oral surgeons, 40 from endodontists, 20 from periodontists, and 35 from prosthodontists. Respondents were grouped by age: A (≤35 years, n = 207), B (36–50 years, n = 224), and C (≥51 years, n = 209). Amoxicillin was the first-choice antibiotic for 81.1% of respondents (group A more frequently than other groups, p = 0.001). A 7-day treatment duration was preferred by 60.8%, while 33.6% chose 5 days. For patients allergic to β-lactam antibiotics, 63% preferred clindamycin. Over 90% cited acute apical abscess with systematic involvement as an indication for antibiotic prescription. A factor analysis of 18 clinical scenarios revealed prescription differences among dental specialists, oral surgeons, and periodontists prescribing antibiotics more frequently than general dentists and endodontists. For prophylaxis, 87.5% recommended antibiotics for patients at risk of infectious endocarditis after a cardiologist's consultation (group C less frequently than other groups, p = 0.021). Conclusions: Lithuanian dentists generally prefer narrow-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of odontogenic infections. There are notable differences in prescription patterns among dental specialists, with younger dentists showing a trend towards more rational antibiotic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance is an ongoing public health crisis fueled by overuse and misuse of antibiotics. The goal of this article is to examine the impact of action-based incentive payments on reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions in primary care, where 30%–50% of antibiotic prescriptions are inappropriate. Various financial incentive programs to reduce the rate of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions have been implemented and studied empirically. However, there have not been analytical studies to evaluate payment model contract design features and the potential for payment models to impact diagnosis decision making. We develop a stylized physician compensation model to study the interaction between a payer and a provider. The payer offers a payment contract, with a bonus tied to the prescription, to maximize social welfare, considering total costs of providing care and social harm from antibiotic resistance. Given the contract offered and their own opportunity cost associated with factors such as fear of misdiagnosis and time spent explaining to patients why antibiotics are not indicated, the provider chooses whether or not to prescribe antibiotics to patients for whom antibiotics are not clinically indicated. We consider four cases: when diagnostic accuracy relies on symptom presentation versus additional diagnostic testing and when the opportunity cost of not prescribing antibiotics is public versus private information of the provider. When there is no information asymmetry, an action-based incentive payment can co-ordinate care and achieve the first-best policy, decreasing the rate of inappropriate prescribing, even when incentive payments can affect the diagnosis behavior. However, when the diagnosis depends on additional testing, the first-best policy results in fewer inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions, when the test has high specificity. Therefore, when an accurate technical diagnostic is available, a simple to implement action-based incentive payment can be effective in reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing. In the realistic setting where the provider's opportunity cost is private information, an action-based incentive payment cannot eliminate inappropriate antibiotic prescribing. In these settings, the introduction of point of care diagnostics to aid in objective diagnostic criteria will reduce the unintended consequences of the contract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the past few years, the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare has grown exponentially. Prescription of antibiotics is not exempt from its rapid diffusion, and various machine learning (ML) techniques, from logistic regression to deep neural networks and large language models, have been explored in the literature to support decisions regarding antibiotic prescription. Areas covered: In this narrative review, we discuss promises and challenges of the application of ML-based clinical decision support systems (ML-CDSSs) for antibiotic prescription. A search was conducted in PubMed up to April 2024. Expert opinion: Prescribing antibiotics is a complex process involving various dynamic phases. In each of these phases, the support of ML-CDSSs has shown the potential, and also the actual ability in some studies, to favorably impacting relevant clinical outcomes. Nonetheless, before widely exploiting this massive potential, there are still crucial challenges ahead that are being intensively investigated, pertaining to the transparency of training data, the definition of the sufficient degree of prediction explanations when predictions are obtained through black box models, and the legal and ethical framework for decision responsibility whenever an antibiotic prescription is supported by ML-CDSSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective To assess the impact of an intervention package on the prescription of antibiotic and subsequently the rate of clinical recovery for non-severe acute febrile illnesses at primary health centers. Methods Patients over 6 months of age presenting to primary health care centres with fever or history of fever within the past 7 days were randomized to receive either the intervention package constituted of point-of-care tests including COVID-19 antigen tests, a diagnostic algorithm and training and communication packages, or the standard practice. The primary outcomes were antibiotic prescriptions at Day 0 (D0) and the clinical recovery at Day 7 (D7). Secondary outcomes were non-adherence of participants and parents/caregivers to prescriptions, health workers’ non-adherence to the algorithm, and the safety of the intervention. Results A total of 1098 patients were enrolled. 551 (50.2%) were randomized to receive the intervention versus 547 (49.8%) received standard care. 1054 (96.0%) completed follow-up and all of them recovered at D7 in both arms. The proportion of patients with antibiotic prescriptions at D0 were 33.2% (183/551) in the intervention arm versus 58.1% (318/547) under standard care, risk difference (RD) -24.9 (95% CI -30.6 to -19.2, p

Background: Antibiotics are often overprescribed in children in general practice. We investigated whether the availability of C-reactive protein point-of-care testing (CRP POCT) in daily practice and general practitioner (GP) education reduces antibiotic prescribing for children with acute infections and whether GP education has a long-term effect on antibiotic prescribing. Methods: This was a randomized controlled intervention study with randomization at the GP practice level. Eligible patients were children aged 1 month to 17 years presenting to general practice with an acute infection. Interventions: In the first study period, one GP group received combined interventions (CRP POCT was provided for daily use in combination with a live educational session), while the second GP group continued usual care. During the second study period, the GP groups were switched. During this period, the long-term education effect was evaluated in the GP group, which had previously received both interventions: the CRP POCT was no longer available in their practices in accordance with the study protocol, but education could have a lasting effect. Primary outcome: Antibiotic prescribing at index consultation. Results: GP with combined intervention enrolled 1784 patients, GP with usual care enrolled 886 patients, and GP with long-term education effect enrolled 647 patients. Most of the patients had upper (76.8%) and lower (18.8%) respiratory infections. In total, 29.3% of the study patients received antibiotic prescriptions. Adjusted binary logistic regression analysis showed no differences for the primary outcome between GPs with usual care and GPs with combined intervention (aOR 0.89 (0.74–1.07), p = 0.20), but significantly lower antibiotic prescribing was observed for GPs with long-term education in comparison with GPs with usual care (aOR 0.75 (0.59–0.96), p = 0.02); however, after multilevel analyses, any differences in the antibiotic prescription between intervention groups became non-significant. GPs widely used CRP POCT when it was available in practice (for 69.1% of patients in the combined intervention group), but rarely measured CRP in the laboratory in the usual care group (8.8% (n = 78)) or long-term education group (14.8% (n = 98)). The majority of the tested patients had low CRP levels (below 20 mg/L); despite this, up to 35.4% of them received antibiotic prescriptions. Conclusions: Our results show that the availability of CRP POCT and educational training for GPs together did not reduce antibiotic prescribing, and one-time education did not have a long-term effect on antibiotic prescribing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the impact of an intervention package on the prescription of antibiotic and subsequently the rate of clinical recovery for non-severe acute febrile illnesses at primary health centers. Methods: Patients over 6 months of age presenting to primary health care centres with fever or history of fever within the past 7 days were randomized to receive either the intervention package constituted of point-of-care tests including COVID-19 antigen tests, a diagnostic algorithm and training and communication packages, or the standard practice. The primary outcomes were antibiotic prescriptions at Day 0 (D0) and the clinical recovery at Day 7 (D7). Secondary outcomes were non-adherence of participants and parents/caregivers to prescriptions, health workers' non-adherence to the algorithm, and the safety of the intervention. Results: A total of 1098 patients were enrolled. 551 (50.2%) were randomized to receive the intervention versus 547 (49.8%) received standard care. 1054 (96.0%) completed follow-up and all of them recovered at D7 in both arms. The proportion of patients with antibiotic prescriptions at D0 were 33.2% (183/551) in the intervention arm versus 58.1% (318/547) under standard care, risk difference (RD) -24.9 (95% CI -30.6 to -19.2, p < 0.001), corresponding to one more antibiotic saved every four (95% CI: 3 to 5) consultations. This reduction was also statistically significant in children from 6 to 59 months (RD -34.5; 95% CI -41.7 to -27.3; p < 0.001), patients over 18 years (RD -35.9; 95%CI -58.5 to -13.4; p = 0.002), patients with negative malaria test (RD -46.9; 95% CI -53.9 to -39.8; p < 0.001), those with a respiratory diagnosis (RD -48.9; 95% CI -56.9 to -41.0, p < 0.001) and those not vaccinated against COVID-19 (-24.8% 95%CI -30.7 to -18.9, p-value: <0.001). A significant reduction in non-adherence to prescription by patients was reported (RD -7.1; 95% CI -10.9 to -3.3; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The intervention was associated with significant reductions of antibiotic prescriptions and non-adherence, chiefly among patients with non-malaria fever, those with respiratory symptoms and children below 5 years of age. The addition of COVID-19 testing did not have a major impact on antibiotic use at primary health centers. Trial registration: Clinitrial.gov; NCT04081051 registered on 06/09/2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Previous studies have identified substantial regional variations in outpatient antibiotic prescribing in Germany, both in the paediatric and adult population. This indicates inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in some regions, which should be avoided to reduce antimicrobial resistance and potential side effects. The reasons for regional variations in outpatient antibiotic prescribing are not yet completely understood; socioeconomic and health care density differences between regions do not fully explain such differences. Here, we apply a behavioural perspective by adapting the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to examine regional factors deemed relevant for outpatient antibiotic prescriptions by paediatricians and general practitioners. Methods Qualitative study with guideline-based telephone interviews of 40 prescribers (paediatricians and general practitioners) in outpatient settings from regions with high and low rates of antibiotic prescriptions, stratified by urbanity. TDF domains formed the basis of an interview guide to assess region-level resources and barriers to rational antibiotic prescription behaviour. Interviews lasted 30–61 min (M = 45 min). Thematic analysis was used to identify thematic clusters, and relationships between themes were explored through proximity estimation. Results Both paediatricians and general practitioners in low-prescribing regions reported supporting contextual factors (in particular good collegial networks, good collaboration with laboratories) and social factors (collegial support and low patient demand for antibiotics) as important resources. In high-prescribing regions, poor coordination between in-patient and ambulatory health services, lack of region-level information on antimicrobial resistance, few professional development opportunities, and regional variations in patient expectations were identified as barriers to rational prescribing behaviour. Conclusions Interventions targeting professional development, better collaboration structures with laboratories and clearer and user-friendly guidelines could potentially support rational antibiotic prescribing behaviour. In addition, better networking and social support among physicians could support lower prescription rates.

Abstract Background Inappropriate antimicrobial use, such as antibiotic intake in viral infections, incorrect dosing and incorrect dosing cycles, has been shown to be an important determinant of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems represent a potential solution for improving antimicrobial prescribing and containing antimicrobial resistance by supporting clinical decision-making thus optimizing antibiotic use and improving patient outcomes. Objective The aim of this research was to examine implementation factors of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals from the perspective of the hospital managers, who have decision-making authority for the organization. Methods An online survey was conducted between December 2022 and May 2023 with managers of German hospitals on factors for decision support system implementation. Survey responses were analyzed from 118 respondents through descriptive statistics. Results Survey participants reported openness towards the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals but little self-perceived knowledge in this field. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems appear to be a promising opportunity to improve quality of care and increase treatment safety. Along with the Human-Organization-Technology-fit model attitudes were presented. In particular, user-friendliness of the system and compatibility with existing technical structures are considered to be important for implementation. The uptake of decision support systems also depends on the ability of an organization to create a facilitating environment that helps to address the lack of user knowledge as well as trust in and skepticism towards these systems. This includes the training of user groups and support of the management level. Besides, it has been assessed to be important that potential users are open towards change and perceive an added value of the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems. Conclusion The survey has revealed the perspective of hospital managers on different factors that may help to address implementation challenges for artificial intelligence-based decision support systems in antibiotic prescribing. By combining factors of user perceptions about the systems´ perceived benefits with external factors of system design requirements and contextual conditions, the findings highlight the need for a holistic implementation framework of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems.

Abstract Background Pneumonia is a major public health problem with an impact on morbidity and mortality. Its management still represents a challenge. The aim was to determine whether a new diagnostic algorithm combining lung ultrasound (LUS) and procalcitonin (PCT) improved pneumonia management regarding antibiotic use, radiation exposure, and associated costs, in critically ill pediatric patients with suspected bacterial pneumonia (BP). Methods Randomized, blinded, comparative effectiveness clinical trial. Children 1 ng/mL, antibiotics were recommended. Results 194 children were enrolled, 113 (58.2%) females, median age of 134 (IQR 39–554) days. 96 randomized into EG and 98 into CG. 1. In 75/194 patients the image test was not suggestive of BP with PCT 1 ng/ml, all of them received antibiotics. A total of 0.035 mSv radiation/patient was eluded. A reduction of 77% CXR/patient was observed. LUS did not significantly increase costs. Conclusions Combination of LUS and PCT showed no risk of mistreating BP, avoided radiation and did not increase costs. The algorithm could be a reliable tool for improving pneumonia management. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04217980.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat linked to increased morbidity and mortality. It has the potential to return us to the pre-antibiotic era. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are recognized as a key intervention to improve antimicrobial use and combat AMR. However, implementation of AMS remains limited in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This study aimed to assess prescription practices, identify areas for improvement, and promote adherence to AMS principles. Conducted at King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda, this qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with eight participants until saturation was reached. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed, revealing four emerging themes. The first theme was on AMS activities that were working well based on availability of microbiology laboratory results and prescription guidelines as factors influencing antibiotic prescription adjustments. The second theme was related to challenges during the implementation of the AMS program, including the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, limited local data on AMR patterns, and stock-outs of essential antibiotics. The third theme was on the importance of adhering to AMR management guidelines at KFH. The last emerged on recommendations from participants centered on regular training for healthcare workers, widespread dissemination of AMR findings across departments, and the enforcement of antibiotic restriction policies. These actions can improve prescription behaviors, upholding the highest standards of patient care, and strengthening the nascent AMS program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have identified substantial regional variations in outpatient antibiotic prescribing in Germany, both in the paediatric and adult population. This indicates inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in some regions, which should be avoided to reduce antimicrobial resistance and potential side effects. The reasons for regional variations in outpatient antibiotic prescribing are not yet completely understood; socioeconomic and health care density differences between regions do not fully explain such differences. Here, we apply a behavioural perspective by adapting the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to examine regional factors deemed relevant for outpatient antibiotic prescriptions by paediatricians and general practitioners. Methods: Qualitative study with guideline-based telephone interviews of 40 prescribers (paediatricians and general practitioners) in outpatient settings from regions with high and low rates of antibiotic prescriptions, stratified by urbanity. TDF domains formed the basis of an interview guide to assess region-level resources and barriers to rational antibiotic prescription behaviour. Interviews lasted 30–61 min (M = 45 min). Thematic analysis was used to identify thematic clusters, and relationships between themes were explored through proximity estimation. Results: Both paediatricians and general practitioners in low-prescribing regions reported supporting contextual factors (in particular good collegial networks, good collaboration with laboratories) and social factors (collegial support and low patient demand for antibiotics) as important resources. In high-prescribing regions, poor coordination between in-patient and ambulatory health services, lack of region-level information on antimicrobial resistance, few professional development opportunities, and regional variations in patient expectations were identified as barriers to rational prescribing behaviour. Conclusions: Interventions targeting professional development, better collaboration structures with laboratories and clearer and user-friendly guidelines could potentially support rational antibiotic prescribing behaviour. In addition, better networking and social support among physicians could support lower prescription rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inappropriate antimicrobial use, such as antibiotic intake in viral infections, incorrect dosing and incorrect dosing cycles, has been shown to be an important determinant of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems represent a potential solution for improving antimicrobial prescribing and containing antimicrobial resistance by supporting clinical decision-making thus optimizing antibiotic use and improving patient outcomes. Objective: The aim of this research was to examine implementation factors of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals from the perspective of the hospital managers, who have decision-making authority for the organization. Methods: An online survey was conducted between December 2022 and May 2023 with managers of German hospitals on factors for decision support system implementation. Survey responses were analyzed from 118 respondents through descriptive statistics. Results: Survey participants reported openness towards the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals but little self-perceived knowledge in this field. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems appear to be a promising opportunity to improve quality of care and increase treatment safety. Along with the Human-Organization-Technology-fit model attitudes were presented. In particular, user-friendliness of the system and compatibility with existing technical structures are considered to be important for implementation. The uptake of decision support systems also depends on the ability of an organization to create a facilitating environment that helps to address the lack of user knowledge as well as trust in and skepticism towards these systems. This includes the training of user groups and support of the management level. Besides, it has been assessed to be important that potential users are open towards change and perceive an added value of the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems. Conclusion: The survey has revealed the perspective of hospital managers on different factors that may help to address implementation challenges for artificial intelligence-based decision support systems in antibiotic prescribing. By combining factors of user perceptions about the systems´ perceived benefits with external factors of system design requirements and contextual conditions, the findings highlight the need for a holistic implementation framework of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centor and McIsaac scores are clinical prediction rules for diagnosing group A streptococcus (GAS) infection in patients with pharyngitis. Their recommended thresholds vary between guidelines. To estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the McIsaac and Centor scores to diagnose GAS pharyngitis and evaluate their impact on antibiotic prescribing at each threshold in patients presenting to secondary care. MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from inception to September 2022. Studies of patients presenting with acute pharyngitis to emergency or outpatient clinics that estimated the accuracy of McIsaac or Centor scores against throat cultures and/or rapid antigen detection tests (RADT) as reference standards. Centor or McIsaac score. Throat cultures and/or RADT. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies. The sensitivities and specificities of the McIsaac and Centor scores were pooled at each threshold using bivariate random effects meta-analysis. Fourteen studies were included (eight McIsaac and six Centor scores). Eight studies had unclear and six had a high risk of bias. The McIsaac score had higher estimated sensitivity and lower specificity relative to Centor scores at equivalent thresholds but with wide and overlapping confidence regions. Using either score as a triage to RADT to decide antibiotic treatment would reduce antibiotic prescription to patients with non-GAS pharyngitis relative to RADT test for everyone, but also reduce antibiotic prescription to patients with GAS. Centor and McIsaac scores are equally ineffective at triaging patients who need antibiotics presenting with pharyngitis at hospitals. At high thresholds, too many true positive cases are missed, whereas at low thresholds, too many false positives are treated, leading to the over prescription of antibiotics. The former may be compensated by adequate safety netting by clinicians, ensuring that patients can seek help if symptoms worsen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pneumonia is a major public health problem with an impact on morbidity and mortality. Its management still represents a challenge. The aim was to determine whether a new diagnostic algorithm combining lung ultrasound (LUS) and procalcitonin (PCT) improved pneumonia management regarding antibiotic use, radiation exposure, and associated costs, in critically ill pediatric patients with suspected bacterial pneumonia (BP). Methods: Randomized, blinded, comparative effectiveness clinical trial. Children < 18y with suspected BP admitted to the PICU from September 2017 to December 2019, were included. PCT was determined at admission. Patients were randomized into the experimental group (EG) and control group (CG) if LUS or chest X-ray (CXR) were done as the first image test, respectively. Patients were classified: 1.LUS/CXR not suggestive of BP and PCT < 1 ng/mL, no antibiotics were recommended; 2.LUS/CXR suggestive of BP, regardless of the PCT value, antibiotics were recommended; 3.LUS/CXR not suggestive of BP and PCT > 1 ng/mL, antibiotics were recommended. Results: 194 children were enrolled, 113 (58.2%) females, median age of 134 (IQR 39–554) days. 96 randomized into EG and 98 into CG. 1. In 75/194 patients the image test was not suggestive of BP with PCT < 1 ng/ml; 29/52 in the EG and 11/23 in the CG did not receive antibiotics. 2. In 101 patients, the image was suggestive of BP; 34/34 in the EG and 57/67 in the CG received antibiotics. Statistically significant differences between groups were observed when PCT resulted < 1 ng/ml (p = 0.01). 3. In 18 patients the image test was not suggestive of BP but PCT resulted > 1 ng/ml, all of them received antibiotics. A total of 0.035 mSv radiation/patient was eluded. A reduction of 77% CXR/patient was observed. LUS did not significantly increase costs. Conclusions: Combination of LUS and PCT showed no risk of mistreating BP, avoided radiation and did not increase costs. The algorithm could be a reliable tool for improving pneumonia management. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04217980. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundChildhood remains a vulnerable period and a key determiner for adult health. Various illnesses experienced by children in their early years determine future performance and contribution to society. Acute and chronic infectious diseases, undernutrition, and early childhood non-communicable diseases have greatly been linked to intellectual disability, poor childhood development, increased morbidity, and household and healthcare economic costs. In most developing countries, infections contribute to a larger burden of disease. Despite this being the case, most developing countries have a limited range of diagnostic capacity and access to a wide range spectrum of WHO Access, Watch and Reserve antibiotics. This leads to overuse and misuse of the available antibiotics and a wide range spread of resistance strains. In this study, we evaluated common childhood presentations and indications for antibiotic prescriptions at a community hospital in Malawi.ObjectiveThis study analyzed common childhood Clinical Presentations and antibiotic prescription patterns at the pediatric outpatient department (OPD) at St. Gabriel Community Mission Hospital in Malawi.MethodsA retrospective search of all outpatient routinely corrected data from St. Gabriel Community Mission Hospital between January to December 2022 was carried out. Manual screening was done on all appropriate routines under 14 medical records, and prespecified variables were extracted. Data collected consisted of total OPD patient number, age, sex, diagnosis and prescription.ResultsA total of 2711 children under 15 years of age were included, with 53.9% being males. The majority of them were below the age of 5 (59.5%). 30% of the cases seen in the department were attributable to respiratory presentation, representing the majority of the cases seen. Sepsis and enteric diseases also constituted the majority of the cases seen and contributed 18% and 7% respectively. 68% per cent of the children seen during the period of the study had an antibiotic prescription, with the majority having only one antibiotic prescribed (31.7%). Overall, amoxicillin constituted the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for the whole system, while metronidazole was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic among enteric illnesses. Being under five was associated with a higher likelihood of antibiotic prescription (p

Background: Antibiotics remain among the most prescribed drugs in primary healthcare, contributing to increased antibiotic resistance in the community and prevailing as an emerging global health concern. We aimed to quantify the prevalence and quality of antibiotic prescription in primary healthcare settings in the Municipality of Prishtina to identify targets for quality improvement. Methods and Results: This study represents a population-based, retrospective cohort, including data from eight randomly selected family medical centers in the Municipality of Prishtina. Each 150th patient on medical records was assessed for demographic data, diagnosis (ICD-10), antibiotic prescription, antibiotic class, and antibiotic form. In total, the study included 1614 cases reviewed. The antibiotic prescription rate was 16%. The health condition for which most of the cases received antibiotics was J18 - Pneumonia, unspecified organism (67%), followed by J03 - Acute tonsillitis (54%), J42 - Unspecified chronic bronchitis (46%), and N39 - Other disorders of the urinary system (43%) Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as co-amoxiclav (17.7%), amoxicillin (16.5%), and ceftriaxone (12.6%), featured among the most routinely prescribed antibiotics. The antibiotic prescription rate was the highest for cases in the 3-5 age group, of whom 27% received an antibiotic prescription. In 73% of cases, oral antibiotics were prescribed, 69% of which belong to the WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) essential medicines list. Only 18% of antibiotics were prescribed with their generic names. Conclusion: The prevalence of antibiotic prescription in primary healthcare settings in Prishtina is moderately low. These data cannot be extrapolated to other municipalities in Kosovo or other countries due to different organizational levels. High antibiotic prescription rates for young age groups, prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and high rates of parenteral antibiotics were identified as targets for quality improvement.

Abstract Background Antibiotic resistance is growing globally. The practice of health professionals when prescribing antibiotics in primary health care settings significantly impacts antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic prescription is a complex process influenced by various internal and external factors. This systematic review aims to summarize the available evidence regarding factors contributing to the variation in antibiotic prescribing among physicians in primary healthcare settings. Methods This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA guidelines. We included qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies that examined factors influencing prescription practice and variability among primary healthcare physicians. We excluded editorials, opinions, systematic reviews and studies published in languages other than English. We searched studies from electronic databases: PubMed, ProQuest Health and Medicine, Web Science, and Scopus. The quality of the included studies was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (Version 2018). Narrative synthesis was employed to synthesize the result and incorporate quantitative studies. Results Of the 1816 identified studies, 49 studies spanning 2000–2023 were eligible for review. The factors influencing antibiotic prescription practice and variability were grouped into physician-related, patient-related, and healthcare system-related factors. Clinical guidelines, previous patient experience, physician experience, colleagues’ prescribing practice, pharmaceutical pressure, time pressure, and financial considerations were found to be influencing factors of antibiotic prescribing practice. In addition, individual practice patterns, practice volume, and relationship with patients were also other factors for the variability of antibiotic prescription, especially for intra-physician prescription variability. Conclusion Antibiotic prescription practice in primary health care is a complex practice, influenced by a combination of different factors and this may account for the variation. To address the factors that influence the variability of antibiotic prescription (intra- and inter-physician), interventions should aim to reduce diagnostic uncertainty and provide continuous medical education and training to promote patient-centred care.

Abstract Background Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are among the most frequent infections and a significant contributor to inappropriate antibiotic prescription. Currently, no single diagnostic tool can reliably identify bacterial pneumonia. We thus evaluate a multimodal approach based on a clinical score, lung ultrasound (LUS), and the inflammatory biomarker, procalcitonin (PCT) to guide prescription of antibiotics. LUS outperforms chest X-ray in the identification of pneumonia, while PCT is known to be elevated in bacterial and/or severe infections. We propose a trial to test their synergistic potential in reducing antibiotic prescription while preserving patient safety in emergency departments (ED). Methods The PLUS-IS-LESS study is a pragmatic, stepped-wedge cluster-randomized, clinical trial conducted in 10 Swiss EDs. It assesses the PLUS algorithm, which combines a clinical prediction score, LUS, PCT, and a clinical severity score to guide antibiotics among adults with LRTIs, compared with usual care. The co-primary endpoints are the proportion of patients prescribed antibiotics and the proportion of patients with clinical failure by day 28. Secondary endpoints include measurement of change in quality of life, length of hospital stay, antibiotic-related side effects, barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the algorithm, cost-effectiveness of the intervention, and identification of patterns of pneumonia in LUS using machine learning. Discussion The PLUS algorithm aims to optimize prescription of antibiotics through improved diagnostic performance and maximization of physician adherence, while ensuring safety. It is based on previously validated tests and does therefore not expose participants to unforeseeable risks. Cluster randomization prevents cross-contamination between study groups, as physicians are not exposed to the intervention during or before the control period. The stepped-wedge implementation of the intervention allows effect calculation from both between- and within-cluster comparisons, which enhances statistical power and allows smaller sample size than a parallel cluster design. Moreover, it enables the training of all centers for the intervention, simplifying implementation if the results prove successful. The PLUS algorithm has the potential to improve the identification of LRTIs that would benefit from antibiotics. When scaled, the expected reduction in the proportion of antibiotics prescribed has the potential to not only decrease side effects and costs but also mitigate antibiotic resistance. Trial registration This study was registered on July 19, 2022, on the ClinicalTrials.gov registry using reference number: NCT05463406. Trial status Recruitment started on December 5, 2022, and will be completed on November 3, 2024. Current protocol version is version 3.0, dated April 3, 2023.

Background and Objectives: The inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance. Overprescribing in dental practice has been reported. This study aimed to describe patterns of antibiotic prescription for treating and preventing odontogenic infections based on reports from Lithuanian dentists. Materials and Methods: Questionnaires were sent to all 4751 Lithuanian dentists registered in the database of the Lithuanian Dental Chamber who had consented to participate in surveys. The questionnaire addressed antibiotic prescription preferences for the treatment and prevention of various dental pathologies. The statistical analysis included chi-square tests and a factor analysis to evaluate prescription frequences in different clinical scenarios considering the respondents’ specialty and age. Results: Of 647 responses, 497 were from general dentists, 35 from oral surgeons, 40 from endodontists, 20 from periodontists, and 35 from prosthodontists. Respondents were grouped by age: A (≤35 years, n = 207), B (36–50 years, n = 224), and C (≥51 years, n = 209). Amoxicillin was the first-choice antibiotic for 81.1% of respondents (group A more frequently than other groups, p = 0.001). A 7-day treatment duration was preferred by 60.8%, while 33.6% chose 5 days. For patients allergic to β-lactam antibiotics, 63% preferred clindamycin. Over 90% cited acute apical abscess with systematic involvement as an indication for antibiotic prescription. A factor analysis of 18 clinical scenarios revealed prescription differences among dental specialists, oral surgeons, and periodontists prescribing antibiotics more frequently than general dentists and endodontists. For prophylaxis, 87.5% recommended antibiotics for patients at risk of infectious endocarditis after a cardiologist’s consultation (group C less frequently than other groups, p = 0.021). Conclusions: Lithuanian dentists generally prefer narrow-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of odontogenic infections. There are notable differences in prescription patterns among dental specialists, with younger dentists showing a trend towards more rational antibiotic use.

Background Optimization of antimicrobial stewardship is key to tackling antimicrobial resistance, which is exacerbated by overprescription of antibiotics in pediatric emergency departments (EDs). We described patterns of empiric antibiotic use in European EDs and characterized appropriateness and consistency of prescribing. Methods Between August 2016 and December 2019, febrile children attending EDs in 9 European countries with suspected infection were recruited into the PERFORM (Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management) study. Empiric systemic antibiotic use was determined in view of assigned final "bacterial" or "viral" phenotype. Antibiotics were classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) AWaRe classification. Results Of 2130 febrile episodes (excluding children with nonbacterial/nonviral phenotypes), 1549 (72.7%) were assigned a bacterial and 581 (27.3%) a viral phenotype. A total of 1318 of 1549 episodes (85.1%) with a bacterial and 269 of 581 (46.3%) with a viral phenotype received empiric systemic antibiotics (in the first 2 days of admission). Of those, the majority (87.8% in the bacterial and 87.0% in the viral group) received parenteral antibiotics. The top 3 antibiotics prescribed were third-generation cephalosporins, penicillins, and penicillin/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations. Of those treated with empiric systemic antibiotics in the viral group, 216 of 269 (80.3%) received ≥1 antibiotic in the "Watch" category. Conclusions Differentiating bacterial from viral etiology in febrile illness on initial ED presentation remains challenging, resulting in a substantial overprescription of antibiotics. A significant proportion of patients with a viral phenotype received systemic antibiotics, predominantly classified as WHO Watch. Rapid and accurate point-of-care tests in the ED differentiating between bacterial and viral etiology could significantly improve antimicrobial stewardship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic-related adverse events are common in both adults and children, and knowledge of the factors that favor the development of antibiotic-related adverse events is essential to limit their occurrence and severity. Genetics can condition the development of antibiotic-related adverse events, and the screening of patients with supposed or demonstrated specific genetic mutations may reduce drug-related adverse events. This narrative review discusses which genetic variations may influence the risk of antibiotic-related adverse events and which conclusions can be applied to clinical practice. An analysis of the literature showed that defined associations between genetic variations and specific adverse events are very few and that, at the moment, none of them have led to the implementation of a systematic screening process for patients that must be treated with a given antibiotic in order to select those at risk of specific adverse events. On the other hand, in most of the cases, more than one variation is implicated in the determination of adverse events, and this can be a limitation in planning a systematic screening. Moreover, presently, the methods used to establish whether a patient carries a "dangerous" genetic mutation require too much time and waiting for the result of the test can be deleterious for those patients urgently requiring therapy. Further studies are needed to definitively confirm which genetic variations are responsible for an increased risk of a well-defined adverse event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the socio cultural and institutional determinants of irresponsible prescription and use of antibiotics which has implications for the rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study describes the patterns of prescription of antibiotics in a public facility in India and identifies the underlying institutional, cultural and social determinants driving the irresponsible use of antibiotics. The analysis is based on an empirical investigation of patients' prescriptions that reach the in-house pharmacy following an outpatient department (OPD) encounter with the clinician. The prescription analysis describes the factors associated with use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and a high percentage of prescriptions for dental outpatient department prescribed as a precautionary measure. This paper further highlights the need for future research insights in combining socio-cultural approach with medical rationalities, to further explore questions our analysis highlights like higher antibiotic prescription, etc., Along with the recommendations for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antibiotics are often overprescribed in children in general practice. We investigated whether the availability of C-reactive protein point-of-care testing (CRP POCT) in daily practice and general practitioner (GP) education reduces antibiotic prescribing for children with acute infections and whether GP education has a long-term effect on antibiotic prescribing. Methods: This was a randomized controlled intervention study with randomization at the GP practice level. Eligible patients were children aged 1 month to 17 years presenting to general practice with an acute infection. Interventions: In the first study period, one GP group received combined interventions (CRP POCT was provided for daily use in combination with a live educational session), while the second GP group continued usual care. During the second study period, the GP groups were switched. During this period, the long-term education effect was evaluated in the GP group, which had previously received both interventions: the CRP POCT was no longer available in their practices in accordance with the study protocol, but education could have a lasting effect. Primary outcome: Antibiotic prescribing at index consultation. Results: GP with combined intervention enrolled 1784 patients, GP with usual care enrolled 886 patients, and GP with long-term education effect enrolled 647 patients. Most of the patients had upper (76.8%) and lower (18.8%) respiratory infections. In total, 29.3% of the study patients received antibiotic prescriptions. Adjusted binary logistic regression analysis showed no differences for the primary outcome between GPs with usual care and GPs with combined intervention (aOR 0.89 (0.74–1.07), p = 0.20), but significantly lower antibiotic prescribing was observed for GPs with long-term education in comparison with GPs with usual care (aOR 0.75 (0.59–0.96), p = 0.02); however, after multilevel analyses, any differences in the antibiotic prescription between intervention groups became non-significant. GPs widely used CRP POCT when it was available in practice (for 69.1% of patients in the combined intervention group), but rarely measured CRP in the laboratory in the usual care group (8.8% (n = 78)) or long-term education group (14.8% (n = 98)). The majority of the tested patients had low CRP levels (below 20 mg/L); despite this, up to 35.4% of them received antibiotic prescriptions. Conclusions: Our results show that the availability of CRP POCT and educational training for GPs together did not reduce antibiotic prescribing, and one-time education did not have a long-term effect on antibiotic prescribing.

Abstract Background The prescription of antibiotics in dental practice contributes significantly to the total use of antibiotics in primary healthcare. This study aimed to evaluate antibiotic prescription in dental practice during the years 2016–2021 in Norway and their relative contribution to national outpatient consumption and to investigate the influence of age, gender, geographic region, and COVID-19. A further aim was to review differences in prescribing patterns to verify effect of governmental strategies to reduce over-prescribing of antibiotics. Methods This register study investigated the national antibiotic prescription between 2016 and 2021. Data was obtained from the Norwegian prescription register, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Statistics Norway. The consumption of 12 common antibiotics was measured using WHO defined daily doses (DDDs), DDD per 1000 inhabitants per day (DIDs 1000). Results A total of 6,049,445 antibiotic prescriptions of the 12 investigated compounds were issued in primary care during the study period. Dentists accounted for 942,350 prescriptions corresponding to 15.6% of the total. An overall decrease in the number of prescriptions by health professions other than dentists during the 5 years (IRR = 0.92, 95% CI:0.92–0.93, p

Introduction: The empiric use of antibiotics in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection is not routinely recommended unless a secondary bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed. However, there have been reports of widespread antibiotic use in COVID-19 patients, despite a low rate of secondary bacterial co-infection. Therefore, this study aims to understand the factors influencing the empirical prescription of antibacterial drugs in Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed COVID-19 patients in Indian settings, as the available data is sparse and conflicting. Aim: To determine the factors associated with antibacterial prescription in patients with proven COVID-19 infection at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: An antibacterial surveillance study was conducted at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The study duration was two months, from September 2020 to October 2020. The study included COVID-19 patients admitted to critical and non-critical COVID-19 Care Units. Patient data, including demographics, general and systemic examination details, biochemistry, pathological and microbiological reports, and treatment details, were collected using a specially designed form. Patients who were prescribed antibacterial drugs (other than repurposed antibacterial drugs for COVID-19 treatment) were considered as cases, while the rest were classified as controls. The Hazard Ratio (HR) for factors associated with antibacterial prescription was estimated using Cox regression analysis with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: The study included 200 patients, of whom 45 (22.5%) received antibacterial drugs and were classified as cases, while the remaining 155 (77.5%) received antibacterial drugs and were classified as controls. The median age of cases and controls was 59 and 46 years, respectively. Cox regression analysis showed that procalcitonin >1 ng/mL (HR: 1.074, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.009-1.142, p-value=0.02) and admission to the critical care unit were independent predictors of antibacterial prescription. Additionally, high-dose steroid use (>120 mg/day of Methylprednisolone [MPS]) was associated with a 20% higher risk of antibacterial prescription, although the values were statistically non-significant (HR: 1.203, 95% CI: 0.503-2.879, p=0.678). Conclusion: Admission to critical care units and procalcitonin levels >1 ng/mL were identified as independent predictors of antibacterial prescription in COVID-19 patients. Compliance with hospital-based standard treatment guidelines promotes the rational use of antibacterial drugs.

This paper explores the socio cultural and institutional determinants of irresponsible prescription and use of antibiotics which has implications for the rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study describes the patterns of prescription of antibiotics in a public facility in India and identifies the underlying institutional, cultural and social determinants driving the irresponsible use of antibiotics. The analysis is based on an empirical investigation of patients’ prescriptions that reach the in-house pharmacy following an outpatient department (OPD) encounter with the clinician. The prescription analysis describes the factors associated with use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and a high percentage of prescriptions for dental outpatient department prescribed as a precautionary measure. This paper further highlights the need for future research insights in combining socio-cultural approach with medical rationalities, to further explore questions our analysis highlights like higher antibiotic prescription, etc., Along with the recommendations for further research.

Background: Selective reporting has important value in antibiotic management. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of AST selective reporting on prescribing behavior, so as to provide evidence for the implementation and improvement of selective reporting policies in microbiology laboratories at home and abroad. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a teaching tertiary hospital in China in July 2021. We designed selective reports and routine reports for urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli and lower respiratory tract infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Questionnaires were conducted among participants by case vignettes, and 116 valid questionnaires were collected. The appropriateness rate of antibiotic prescription and the prescription rate of drugresistant antibiotics, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and carbapenems were calculated and compared between the selective reporting group and the routine reporting group in each case. Results: In most cases, we found that AST selective reporting could increase the appropriateness rate of antibiotic prescription (p < 0.05) and reduce the drugresistant antibiotic prescription rate (p < 0.01), cephalosporin drug prescription rate (p < 0.05) and fluoroquinolone drug prescription rate (p < 0.01). Although the difference in carbapenems prescription rate was not significant, selective reporting could reduce the number of its prescriptions to some extent. Conclusion: AST selective reporting can help promote the appropriate use of antibiotics and reduce the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. It is suggested to develop scientific and effective selective reporting practices and strengthen the two-way communication between clinicians and microbiology laboratories, thereby enabling microbiology laboratories to play a more important role in clinical antimicrobial management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat linked to increased morbidity and mortality. It has the potential to return us to the pre-antibiotic era. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are recognized as a key intervention to improve antimicrobial use and combat AMR. However, implementation of AMS remains limited in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This study aimed to assess prescription practices, identify areas for improvement, and promote adherence to AMS principles. Conducted at King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda, this qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with eight participants until saturation was reached. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed, revealing four emerging themes. The first theme was on AMS activities that were working well based on availability of microbiology laboratory results and prescription guidelines as factors influencing antibiotic prescription adjustments. The second theme was related to challenges during the implementation of the AMS program, including the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, limited local data on AMR patterns, and stock-outs of essential antibiotics. The third theme was on the importance of adhering to AMR management guidelines at KFH. The last emerged on recommendations from participants centered on regular training for healthcare workers, widespread dissemination of AMR findings across departments, and the enforcement of antibiotic restriction policies. These actions can improve prescription behaviors, upholding the highest standards of patient care, and strengthening the nascent AMS program.

Background: The prescription of antibiotics in dental practice contributes significantly to the total use of antibiotics in primary healthcare. This study aimed to evaluate antibiotic prescription in dental practice during the years 2016–2021 in Norway and their relative contribution to national outpatient consumption and to investigate the influence of age, gender, geographic region, and COVID-19. A further aim was to review differences in prescribing patterns to verify effect of governmental strategies to reduce over-prescribing of antibiotics. Methods: This register study investigated the national antibiotic prescription between 2016 and 2021. Data was obtained from the Norwegian prescription register, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Statistics Norway. The consumption of 12 common antibiotics was measured using WHO defined daily doses (DDDs), DDD per 1000 inhabitants per day (DIDs 1000). Results: A total of 6,049,445 antibiotic prescriptions of the 12 investigated compounds were issued in primary care during the study period. Dentists accounted for 942,350 prescriptions corresponding to 15.6% of the total. An overall decrease in the number of prescriptions by health professions other than dentists during the 5 years (IRR = 0.92, 95% CI:0.92–0.93, p < 0.001) was observed. For dentists a slight increase in the number of prescriptions (IRR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01–1.01, p < 0.001) was seen over the study period. The increase of antibiotic prescriptions in dentistry was more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 4 most prescribed type of antibiotics based on average number of DDDs of the total period 2016–2021 were in descending order; phenoxymethylpenicillin (1,109,150) followed by amoxicillin (126,244), clindamycin (72,565), and metronidazole (64,599). An unexpected finding was that the prescription of the combination compound amoxicillin/clavulanic acid had significantly increased in dentistry during the last 5 years. Geographic, gender, and age differences in the rates of prescriptions were also seen. The data revealed that there are seasonal variations in dental prescriptions. Conclusions: Noticeable differences exist in prescribing patterns of antibiotics in the last 5 years. Restricted access to dental care due to COVID-19 may have resulted in increased antibiotic prescribing in dentistry as opposed to an otherwise downward trend. Despite national guidelines there is still a need for improvement of antibiotic stewardship in dentistry and to define effective methods to disseminate information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are among the most frequent reasons for referrals to the pediatric emergency department (PED). The aim of this study is to describe the management of antibiotic prescription in febrile children with LRTI or CAP admitted to a third-level PED and to investigate the different variables that can guide physicians in this decision-making. Methods: This is an observational, retrospective, monocentric study including patients < 14 years old who were presented to the PED for a febrile LRTI or CAP during the first six months of the year 2017. Demographic and clinical data, PED examinations, recommended therapy, and discharge modality were considered. Two multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed on patients with complete profiles to investigate the impact of demographic, laboratory, and clinical variables on antibiotic prescription and hospital admission. Results: This study included 584 patients with LRTI (n = 368) or CAP (n = 216). One hundred and sixty-eight individuals (28.7%) were admitted to the hospital. Lower age, higher heart rate, and lower SpO2 were associated with an increased risk of hospitalization. Antibiotics were prescribed to 495 (84.8%) patients. According to the multivariate logistic regression, the diagnosis and duration of fever were substantially linked with antibiotic prescription. Conclusions: The present study reports real-life data about our PED experience. A high rate of antibiotic prescription was noted. In the future, it is necessary to improve antibiotic stewardship programs to increase clinical adherence to guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The empiric use of antibiotics in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection is not routinely recommended unless a secondary bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed. However, there have been reports of widespread antibiotic use in COVID-19 patients, despite a low rate of secondary bacterial co-infection. Therefore, this study aims to understand the factors influencing the empirical prescription of antibacterial drugs in Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed COVID-19 patients in Indian settings, as the available data is sparse and conflicting. Aim: To determine the factors associated with antibacterial prescription in patients with proven COVID-19 infection at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: An antibacterial surveillance study was conducted at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The study duration was two months, from September 2020 to October 2020. The study included COVID-19 patients admitted to critical and non-critical COVID-19 Care Units. Patient data, including demographics, general and systemic examination details, biochemistry, pathological and microbiological reports, and treatment details, were collected using a specially designed form. Patients who were prescribed antibacterial drugs (other than repurposed antibacterial drugs for COVID-19 treatment) were considered as cases, while the rest were classified as controls. The Hazard Ratio (HR) for factors associated with antibacterial prescription was estimated using Cox regression analysis with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: The study included 200 patients, of whom 45 (22.5%) received antibacterial drugs and were classified as cases, while the remaining 155 (77.5%) received antibacterial drugs and were classified as controls. The median age of cases and controls was 59 and 46 years, respectively. Cox regression analysis showed that procalcitonin >1 ng/mL (HR: 1.074, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.009-1.142, p-value=0.02) and admission to the critical care unit were independent predictors of antibacterial prescription. Additionally, high-dose steroid use (>120 mg/day of Methylprednisolone [MPS]) was associated with a 20% higher risk of antibacterial prescription, although the values were statistically non-significant (HR: 1.203, 95% CI: 0.503-2.879, p=0.678). Conclusion: Admission to critical care units and procalcitonin levels >1 ng/mL were identified as independent predictors of antibacterial prescription in COVID-19 patients. Compliance with hospital-based standard treatment guidelines promotes the rational use of antibacterial drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Low- and middle-income countries face significant challenges in differentiating bacterial from viral causes of febrile illnesses, leading to inappropriate use of antibiotics. This trial aimed to evaluate the impact of an intervention package comprising diagnostic tests, a diagnostic algorithm, and a training-and-communication package on antibiotic prescriptions and clinical outcomes. Methods Patients aged 6 months to 18 years with fever or history of fever within the past 7 days with no focus, or a suspected respiratory tract infection, arriving at 2 health facilities were randomized to either the intervention package or standard practice. The primary outcomes were the proportions of patients who recovered at day 7 (D7) and patients prescribed antibiotics at day 0. Results Of 1718 patients randomized, 1681 (97.8%; intervention: 844; control: 837) completed follow-up: 99.5% recovered at D7 in the intervention arm versus 100% in standard practice (P =.135). Antibiotics were prescribed to 40.6% of patients in the intervention group versus 57.5% in the control arm (risk ratio: 29.3%; 95% CI: 21.8–36.0%; risk difference [RD]: −16.8%; 95% CI: −21.7% to −12.0%; P <.001), which translates to 1 additional antibiotic prescription saved every 6 (95% CI: 5–8) consultations. This reduction was significant regardless of test results for malaria, but was greater in patients without malaria (RD: −46.0%; −54.7% to −37.4%; P <.001), those with a respiratory diagnosis (RD: −38.2%; −43.8% to −32.6%; P <.001), and in children 6–59 months old (RD: −20.4%; −26.0% to −14.9%; P <.001). Except for the period July–September, the reduction was consistent across the other quarters (P <.001). Conclusions The implementation of the package can reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescription without compromising clinical outcomes. Clinical Trials Registration clinicaltrials.gov; NCT04081051. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a substantial risk to public health. In low-income and middle-income (LMICs) nations, the impact of AMR is significantly more severe. The absence of data from low-income countries (LMICs) causes this topic to be frequently overlooked. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic could make the AMR issue even worse. Earlier guidelines recommended antibiotic use in patients with COVID-19, even in those without bacterial coinfection. This study aims to investigate the proportion of antibiotic prescriptions in LMICs among patients with and without coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), the proportion of inappropriate antibiotics, and multi-antibiotic prescribing. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). We retrieved data through online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Amongst COVID-19 patients, the meta-analytic estimate of antibiotic prescription was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.72–0.88), whereas antibiotic use among patients with non-COVID-19 infections was 0.54 (95% CI: 0.49–0.58). Half of those prescribed antibiotics (0.52, 95% CI: 0.32–0.72) are inappropriate prescriptions. In addition, we found that one-third of antibiotics prescriptions consisted of more than one antibiotic (0.32, 95% CI: 0.21–0.43). In conclusion, antibiotics are highly prescribed across LMICs, and their use is increased in patients with COVID-19. Amongst those prescriptions, inappropriate and multiple use was not uncommon. This study has several limitations, as it included two studies in an ambulatory setting, and some of the studies included in the analysis were conducted on a small scale. Nevertheless, our findings suggest that urgent action to improve prescribing practices is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is defined as bacteria’s resistance to therapy despite therapeutic levels of antibiotics. It is a global health concern. Data on the antibiotic prescription practice of physicians, in general, are limited in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, we aim to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of antibiotic prescription between surgical and non-surgical residents at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at KAMC in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from September 2019, until March 2020. The questionnaire contained demographic information and 31 questions based on the studied variables: knowledge (17), attitude (4), and practice (10). Results: The response rate was 83 %. Male to female response rates were 54 % and 46 %, respectively. The majority of respondents (72 %) were non-surgical residents. Positive practice skills showed that 55 % of all healthcare residents always used practice guidelines for antibiotic prescription in their daily work (P-value

Mohammed Abdulhai Abuhassna,1 Hadeel Abdullah Aldajani,2 Khalil Wassam AlQahtani,3 Arwa Khader Alzahrani,4 Deena Abdullah AlAwwad,5 Oubada Suliman,6 Mona Talal Rajeh,7 Sajna Ashraf,8 Sadeq Ali Al-Maweri9 1Restorative Department, College of Dentistry, Riyadh Elm University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Ministry of Health, King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 4Faculty of Dentistry, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 5College of Dentistry, Riyadh Elm University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 6Prosthodontics Department, College of Dentistry, Riyadh Elm University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 7Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 8Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Vision Colleges, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 9College of Dental Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, QatarCorrespondence: Sadeq Ali Al-Maweri, College of Dental Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar, Tel +974 33838572, Email Sadali05@hotmail.com; salmaweri@qu.edu.qaBackground: Antibiotics are widely used in dental practice, especially for endodontic infections. The present survey aimed to investigate the knowledge and practices of dental interns in Saudi Arabia regarding antibiotic prescription for endodontic treatment.Methods: The present online questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study involved dental interns in private and public dental schools, Saudi Arabia. A pre-validated questionnaire was distributed to 900 dental interns via different social media platforms. The questionnaire consisted of 16 close-ended questions related to participants’ demographic data and knowledge and practices of antibiotic prescription in context of endodontic treatments. Data were managed and analyzed using IBM-SPSS version 25, and Chi-square test was used to compare between the groups.Results: A total of 555 dental interns completed the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 61.1%. Overall, the surveyed participants revealed inadequate knowledge and unnecessary use of antibiotics during endodontic procedures. While majority of the participants (75.3%) correctly identified the first choice of antibiotics during endodontic treatments, a considerable proportion of the participants did not recognize the clinical indications of antibiotics in endodontic patients. Additionally, around one-fifth (18.9%) of the participants were unaware of the potential side effects of the prescribed antibiotics.Conclusion: The present survey revealed unsatisfactory knowledge and practices of antibiotic prescription in context of endodontic therapy among Saudi dental interns. Therefore, dental schools in Saudi Arabia should address such a gap through updating the curriculum and integrating real-world clinical scenarios using problem-based learning. Additionally, periodic continuous education courses aiming at improving dental professionals’ knowledge about antibiotics and their clinical uses for endodontic therapy are highly encouraged.Keywords: antibiotic prescription, knowledge, practices, dental interns

Objectives: To assess the pattern of antimicrobial use among pediatric inpatients in a secondary care hospital in the United Arab Emirates. Materials and Methods: The prospective study was conducted based on the electronic records of 600 patients, collected over a period of 11 months, from September 2020 to July 2021. The primary patient population was the pediatric patients receiving antimicrobials admitted to Saqr Hospital, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), United Arab Emirates (UAE). The data gathered includes general patient information, lab investigations, diagnoses, chronic medical conditions, and antimicrobials used. The number of defined daily doses (DDDs) administered per patient was calculated for each antimicrobial prescribed as per the WHO anatomical therapeutic chemical classification. Results: Out of 1400 patients admitted to the pediatric unit during the 11-month study period, 600 (42.8%) received antimicrobials. The mean duration of hospital stay was 3.44 days, and each patient received a mean of 1.41 antimicrobials per prescription. The mean days of antimicrobial therapy were 6.9 days. The majority of the patients were aged 0–5 years (61.1%), and 58% of the total sample was male. Amongst a total of 41 different antimicrobials prescribed, the beta-lactam co-amoxiclav (J01CR02) was the most frequently (19.3%) used one, followed by cefuroxime (J01DC02) (16.3%), amoxicillin (J01CA04) (15.0%), and azithromycin (J01FA10) (5.99%). These were administered mainly via the parenteral route, and the most common indication was respiratory disease. Conclusion: Our study concludes that most of the prescribed antimicrobials for pediatric patients are within the WHO access and watch group. Co-amoxiclav, cefuroxime, and amoxicillin are the most frequently used antimicrobials. The main indication for use was respiratory illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic-related adverse events are common in both adults and children, and knowledge of the factors that favor the development of antibiotic-related adverse events is essential to limit their occurrence and severity. Genetics can condition the development of antibiotic-related adverse events, and the screening of patients with supposed or demonstrated specific genetic mutations may reduce drug-related adverse events. This narrative review discusses which genetic variations may influence the risk of antibiotic-related adverse events and which conclusions can be applied to clinical practice. An analysis of the literature showed that defined associations between genetic variations and specific adverse events are very few and that, at the moment, none of them have led to the implementation of a systematic screening process for patients that must be treated with a given antibiotic in order to select those at risk of specific adverse events. On the other hand, in most of the cases, more than one variation is implicated in the determination of adverse events, and this can be a limitation in planning a systematic screening. Moreover, presently, the methods used to establish whether a patient carries a “dangerous” genetic mutation require too much time and waiting for the result of the test can be deleterious for those patients urgently requiring therapy. Further studies are needed to definitively confirm which genetic variations are responsible for an increased risk of a well-defined adverse event.

Abstract Background Although self-limiting viral infections are predominant, children with acute infections are often prescribed antibiotics by family physicians. The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of two interventions, namely C-reactive protein point-of-care testing and educational training, on antibiotic prescribing by family physicians. Methods This randomised controlled intervention study included acutely ill children consulted by 80 family physicians from urban and rural practices in Latvia. The family physicians were divided into two groups of 40. The family physicians in the intervention group received both interventions, i.e. C-reactive protein point-of-care testing and educational training, whereas the family physicians in the control group continued to dispense their standard care. The primary outcome measure was the antibiotic prescribing at the index consultation (delayed or immediate prescription) in both study groups. The secondary outcome was CRP testing per study group. Patient- and family physician- related predictors of antibiotic prescribing were analysed as associated independent variables. Practice location effect on the outcomes was specially addressed, similar to other scientific literature. Results In total, 2039 children with acute infections were enrolled in the study. The most common infections observed were upper and lower respiratory tract infections. Overall, 29.8% (n = 607) of the study population received antibiotic prescription. Our binary logistic regression analysis did not find a statistically significant association between antibiotic prescriptions and the implemented interventions. In the control group of family physicians, a rural location was associated with more frequent antibiotic prescribing and minimal use of CRP testing of venous blood samples. However, in the intervention group of family physicians, a rural location was associated with a higher level of C-reactive protein point-of-care testing. Furthermore, in rural areas, a significant reduction in antibiotic prescribing was observed in the intervention group compared with the control group (29.0% (n = 118) and 37.8% (n = 128), respectively, p = 0.01). Conclusion Our results show that the availabilty of C-reactive protein point-of-care testing and educational training for family physicians did not reduce antibiotic prescribing. Nevertheless, our data indicate that regional variations in antibiotic-prescribing habits exist and the implemented interventions had an effect on family physicians practices in rural areas.

To study the influence of demographic and organizational factors to antibiotic utilization in dental implant surgery in Sweden. Descriptive statistics regarding antibiotic prescription between 2009 and 2019 was retrieved from two national registers, the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register and the Dental Health register, both administered by the National Board of Health and Welfare. During the years 2009–2019 a significant decrease of the proportion of prescriptions of systemic antibiotics in conjunction with implant surgical procedures occurred in all patient groups where the most common procedure was the insertion of a single implant. The proportion of dental visits when implant surgical treatment was performed which resulted in a prescription of antibiotics decreased significantly from 1/3 to approximately 1/5. However, comparing Public and Private dental care providers, the reduction was significantly greater in Public dental care. Patients with low level of education in urban regions, treated in Private dental clinics were more likely to receive antibiotics in conjunction to implant surgery compared to other groups. Phenoxymethylpenicillin is the most widely used substance in conjunction with implant surgery. There is still room for improvement in reduction of antibiotic prescriptions in conjunction to implant surgical procedures in Sweden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics have individual and public-health drawbacks. Nevertheless, mother-infant attachment quality and maternal sensitivity are associated with antibiotic use. Ambivalent-attached infants are more likely to consume antibiotics than other infants. Conceivably, the emotional over-externalization of ambivalent-attached infants and maternal anxiety when infants are ill raise concerns in healthcare professionals, leading to antibiotic over-prescriptions. However, because infants prematurely born, particularly those with less than 32 weeks of gestation, are under more accurate health vigilance, the impact of infant and maternal behavior on antibiotic prescription may vanish in this sample. To test this hypothesis, we performed a longitudinal study to compare antibiotic use and the quality of mother-infant attachment in three groups: 86 infants born at full-term, 44 moderate-to-late preterm infants (32–36 gestation weeks), and 58 very-to-extreme preterm infants (<32 gestation weeks). Infants' attachment was observed with the Ainsworth Strange Situation's experimental paradigm at 12 months of corrected age. Findings indicate that infant attachment strategy is associated with antibiotics uptake, but results vary across samples. The proportion of infants that used antibiotics is highest among ambivalent-attached infants in the full-term sample but highest among avoidant-attached infants in the very-to-extreme premature sample. Moreover, higher infant gestational age and lower maternal sensitivity determine higher antibiotic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: No consensus exists whether to administer prophylactic antibiotics in conjunction with manual placenta removal. This study aimed to investigate the postpartum risk of a new prescription of antibiotic treatment, a possible indirect variable for infection, after manual placenta removal. Methods: Obstetric data were merged with data from the Anti-Infection Tool (Swedish antibiotic registry). All vaginal deliveries (n = 13 877) at Helsingborg Hospital, Helsingborg, Sweden, from January 1st, 2014 until June 13th, 2019 were included. Diagnosis codes for infection can be lacking, while the Anti-Infection Tool is complete as it is unavoidable in the computerized prescription system. Logistic regression analyses were performed. The risk of a prescription of antibiotics 24 h to 7 days postpartum was analyzed in the entire study population, and in a subgroup of women not having received any antibiotics 48 h prior to delivery until 24 h after delivery, referred to as "antibiotic-naïve." Results: Manual placenta removal was associated with an increased risk of an antibiotic prescription, adjusted (a) OR = 2.9 (95%CI 1.9–4.3). In the antibiotic-naïve subgroup, manual placenta removal was associated with an increased risk of antibiotic prescription, in general, aOR = 2.2 (95%CI 1.2–4.0), endometritis-specific antibiotics, aOR = 2.7 (95%CI 1.5–4.9), and intravenous antibiotics, aOR = 4.0 (95%CI 2.0–7.9). Conclusion: Manual placenta removal is associated with an increased risk of antibiotic treatment postpartum. An antibiotic-naïve population might benefit from prophylactic antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection, and prospective studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dental students engage in prescribing antibiotics, which, worldwide, are overprescribed. Purpose: To evaluate knowledge, attitudes and practices of antibiotic prescription through a survey in students of the eighth and ninth semester of Dentistry. Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study that recorded information at a single moment without interfering in the sample, seeks to explain the association between level of knowledge in antibiotic prescription with sex and semester, the study was conducted on 109 students, with a non-probabilistic sample. In Google Forms, a survey was conducted taken from the article by Cortés & Montenegro sent to institutional emails on knowledge, attitudes and practices of antibiotics in four domains: characterization of medical practice, knowledge about the diagnostic process, attitudes of the respondents regarding claims, practices in antibiotic use. Data were analyzed in SPSS statistical package version 26.0. Pearson's Chi square and Student's t-test were performed with a 5 % significance level. Findings: 43.1 % of students had a poor level of knowledge about antibiotic prescription, 46.8 % had a regular level of knowledge, and 10.1 % had an acceptable level of knowledge. A level of significance p=0.77 was found between level of knowledge with sex and p>0.40 between level of knowledge with semester. Conclusions: Eighth semester Dentistry students showed a better level of knowledge in antibiotic prescription; while, in relation to sex, women had better results and the level of significance indicates that there is no relationship between the level of knowledge with semester and sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is defined as bacteria's resistance to therapy despite therapeutic levels of antibiotics. It is a global health concern. Data on the antibiotic prescription practice of physicians, in general, are limited in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, we aim to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of antibiotic prescription between surgical and non-surgical residents at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC). A cross-sectional study was conducted at KAMC in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from September 2019, until March 2020. The questionnaire contained demographic information and 31 questions based on the studied variables: knowledge (17), attitude (4), and practice (10). The response rate was 83 %. Male to female response rates were 54 % and 46 %, respectively. The majority of respondents (72 %) were non-surgical residents. Positive practice skills showed that 55 % of all healthcare residents always used practice guidelines for antibiotic prescription in their daily work (P-value < 0.001). Most residents (50 %) sometimes used delayed prescriptions. Non-surgical residents discussed ABR with patients more than surgical residents (P-value = 0.028). Lack of patient interest was the common cause for not discussing ABR with patients (42 %). Non-surgical residents had significantly more training on antibiotic prescription (p-value = 0.001). The fear of infection spread due to not prescribing an antibiotic was significantly higher in non-surgical residents (P-value < 0.001). Non-surgical residents (76 %) took a past medical history of antibiotic consumption more than surgical residents (24 %) (P-value = 0.003). Antibiotic prescription for residents was not influenced by advertisements (91 %). The most common resistant organisms reported by residents were insignificant between the two groups. The results also showed that the residents' common choice of antibiotics was not statistically different between surgical and non-surgical residents in most antibiotic classes. We found that practice guidelines, formal training, and taking patients' past medical histories were significantly higher among non-surgical residents. In contrast, surgical residents were prescribing more antibiotics due to the fear of the spread of the infection. Proper training is essential for all healthcare residents to overcome differences among different specialties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]