Antimicrobial stewardship situation analysis in selected hospitals in Zambia: findings and implications from a national survey

• DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1367703
• Publication Date: 2024-09-27T04:53:39Z
• Authors: Joseph Yamweka Ch...; Steward Mudenda; Kaunda Yamba; Chileshe Lukwesa; Raphael Chanda; Ruth Nakazwe; Bwalya Simunyola; Misheck Shawa; Aubrey Chichonyi ...; Duncan Chanda; Uchizi Chola; Tebuho Mateele; Jeewan Thapa; Kenneth Kapolowe; Mazyanga Lucy Mazaba; Mirfin Mpundu; Freddie Masaninga; Khalid Azam; Chie Nakajima; Yasuhiko Suzuki; Nathan Nsubuga Ba...; Evelyn Wesangula; Martin Matu; Roma Chilengi
• Keywords: Antimicrobial Stewardship; Stewardship; Thematic Analysis; Baseline (sea)

Background Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are critical in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Zambia, there is little information regarding the capacity of hospitals to establish and implement AMS programs. The objective this study was conduct a baseline assessment WHO core elements for an program implementation eight Zambia. Materials methods We conducted exploratory cross-sectional from September 2023 December using self-scoring Periodic National Healthcare Facility Assessment Tool World Health Organization (WHO) policy guidance on integrated activities human health. Eight public were surveyed across five provinces Data analyzed tool thematic analysis. Results Overall, 62.5% (6/8) facilities scored low (below 60%) implementing Most had challenges with reporting feedback within hospital (average score = 46%), Drugs Therapeutics Committee (DTC) functionality 49%), actions 50%), education training 54%), leadership commitment 56%). overall all average (56%). All (100%) did not have allocated budget Finally, neither antibiograms guide utilization nor AMS-trained staff more than 50% surveyed. Conclusion This found these hospitals, especially where DTCs non-functional. identified gaps require urgent attention sustainable multidisciplinary