The Awareness Imperative : Evaluating Knowledge and Practices of Antimicrobial Stewardship Among the Health Care Professionals at A Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

The study focuses on the growing global problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is projected to cause up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 and impose a major economic burden on healthcare systems. In India, (AMR) significantly increases healthcare costs due to prolonged hospital stays, additional treatments, and reduced productivity. To address this issue, Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme(ASP) have been introduced to promote rational antibiotic use, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the development of drug resistance.

The aim of the study is to assess the awareness, knowledge, and prescribing practices related to Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme(ASP) among healthcare professionals. Specifically, it evaluates clinicians, pharmacists, and nursing staff in a 750-bed tertiary care teaching hospital in Rajkot, Gujarat. The research will be conducted as a prospective cross-sectional study with a sample size of 192 participants. Data will be collected using a validated questionnaire and the World Health Organization (WHO)Antimicrobial Stewardship  (AMS) review form to assess knowledge and antimicrobial use practices.

The findings are expected to identify gaps in knowledge and practice, highlight barriers to effective stewardship, and provide recommendations for improving antibiotic prescribing practices and strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs in healthcare settings.