KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES REGARDING ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: A STUDY AMONG THE GENERAL POPULATION FROM THE ORHEI CONSTRUCTED WETLAND

Abstract

Objectives. Antimicrobial resistance is a major health issue as it compromises the effectiveness of treatments and increases the risk of severe infections. Identifying knowledge gaps and planning interventions for the rational use of antibiotics are crucial to reducing antimicrobial resistance. Raising awareness and educating the public are essential strategies to combat this phenomenon. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobial resistance in the general population.

Methods. This study involved the development and testing of a questionnaire based on a literature review. The validation phase included face, content, and construct validity. A total of 767 respondents were surveyed, and preliminary data were analyzed using SPSS 28.0, employing descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation).

Results. Out of 767 participants, 99.87% had taken at least one course of antibiotics. In 86.44% of cases, information received about antibiotics changed their perspective on antibiotic use. Among respondents, 76.0% believe that antibiotics are effective against bacteria, while only 10.1% correctly think that antibiotics are not effective against seasonal viral infections. Additionally, 55.3% believe that patients should trust the doctor’s decision to prescribe antibiotics. Only 51.8% of participants underwent microbiological investigation before antibiotic treatment, and 44.0% requested information from their doctor regarding antibiotic use. Regarding self-medication, 39.1% of respondents have never purchased antimicrobial drugs without a prescription.

Conclusions. The developed questionnaire is a useful tool for assessing public knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning antimicrobial resistance. The results obtained using this tool can support measures to increase awareness of the issue and promote the widespread adoption of best practices in antimicrobial use.