KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE REGARDING ANTIBIOTIC PROPHYLAXIS IN ORTHOPEDIC SURGERIES AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
Antibiotic prophylaxis; Orthopedic surgery; Knowledge, attitude and practice; Medical students; Surgical site infection; Antimicrobial resistance
Abstract
Background: Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis is a cornerstone for preventing surgical site infections (SSI) in orthopedic surgery but inappropriate use contributes to antimicrobial resistance. Understanding knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among future prescribers is essential to guide educational interventions.
Objective: To assess KAP regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for orthopedic surgeries among undergraduate medical students at a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted from January 2024 to January 2025 among 330 willing medical students across all years. A validated 30-item questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding antibiotic prophylaxis in orthopedic surgical settings.
Results: Of 330 students, 310 completed the survey (response rate 93.9%). Adequate knowledge was observed in 48% of participants, positive attitude in 75%, and correct practice responses in 40%. Knowledge scores improved with seniority (p <0.05). Common gaps included timing of administration and guideline adherence.
Conclusion: While attitudes were generally positive, knowledge and practice concerning antibiotic prophylaxis were suboptimal, indicating the need for targeted curricular reinforcement and antimicrobial stewardship education.
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Dr Vaibhav Pawar
Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Orthopaedics Dr. Vasantrao Pawar medical college and research center,Adgao Nashi
Dr Ashutosh Ushir
Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Orthopaedics Dr. Vasantrao Pawar medical college and research center,Adgao Nashik
Dr Gaurav Kapadnis
Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Orthopaedics Dr. Vasantrao Pawar medical college and research center,Adgao Nashik
Dr Bhausaheb Jedhe
Department of Orthopaedics Dr. Vasantrao Pawar medical college and research center,Adgao Nashik
