Browsing by Author "Mhangwa, Timothy"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Antimicrobial stewardship: Exploring knowledge and perceptions of antimicrobial resistance and prescribing practices of medical doctors operating in public health centres in Harare, Zimbabwe
    (University of the Western Cape, 2023) Mhangwa, Timothy; Amde, Woldekidan
    Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern. Antimicrobial stewardship offers possibilities for mitigating antimicrobial resistance through the implementation of multifaceted strategies. Aim: To explore the knowledge and perceptions of antimicrobial resistance and prescribing practices of medical doctors working at public health centres in Harare, Zimbabwe. Methodology: The study used a descriptive qualitative method. Twelve medical doctors working at the two central hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe, were selected purposively. Data was collected through semi-structured, face-to-face in-depth interviews to elicit a rich understanding of the phenomena. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was the method of choice used to analyse the data. Results: Data analysis produced four main themes which included, (i) knowledge of antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship, (ii) perceptions on antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship, (iii) antimicrobial prescribing practices, and (iv) factors influencing antimicrobial stewardship. Participant medical doctors, despite being knowledgeable about and appreciative of antimicrobial stewardship and AMR, had varying degrees of adherence to prescribing guidelines.