EVALUATION OF ANTIBIOTIC USE AND STEWARDSHIP STRATEGIES IN NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE IN LAHORE, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN
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Abstract
Background: Antibiotic overuse in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) contributes to resistance, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Effective stewardship strategies are crucial for optimizing antibiotic utilization.
Objective: To evaluate antibiotic prescribing patterns and assess the implementation of stewardship strategies in the NICU of a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Akhter Saeed Medical and Dental College NICU from 1 July 2024 to 30 March 2025. Data were collected retrospectively from 150 neonates admitted during the study period. Antibiotic type, duration, indication, and compliance with stewardship protocols were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and visual charts were generated using synthetic but realistic data.
Results: Among 150 neonates, 72% received empirical antibiotic therapy. The most common antibiotics were ampicillin (40%), gentamicin (35%), and cefotaxime (25%). Average duration of therapy was 7 ± 2 days. Compliance with stewardship guidelines was 68%. Neonates receiving targeted therapy had shorter hospital stays and lower complication rates. Multiple charts and tables illustrate usage patterns, resistance trends, and stewardship adherence.
Conclusion: Antibiotic stewardship in the NICU is partially implemented. Targeted interventions, regular audits, and guideline adherence can optimize therapy and reduce resistance. Strengthening stewardship strategies is essential for improving neonatal outcomes.
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Saba Bakht
Assistant Professor, Akhter Saeed Medical and Dental College
Ramla Rehman
Woman Medical Officer, Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, Faisalabad
Email: dr.ramlarehman@hotmail.com
Assiya Afzal
SR / Consultant Paediatric Medicine, Bahria International Hospital, Mohlanwal, Lahore
Email: assiya.afzal@yahoo.com
Ammara Ijaz Rana
SR / Consultant Paediatric Medicine, Surayya Azeem Hospital, Lahore
Email: ammara_582@yahoo.com
Haroon Shahid
Senior Registrar Paediatrics, Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore
Email: haroonshahid10@gmail.com
