A Situation Analysis of the Capacity of Laboratories in Faith-Based Hospitals in Zambia to Conduct Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance: Opportunities to Improve Diagnostic Stewardship

• DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12081697
• Publication Date: 2024-08-19T07:43:28Z
• Authors: Doreen Mainza She...; Steward Mudenda; Maisa Kasanga; Victor Daka; Mundia Hendrix Ka...; Mapeesho Kamayani; Jay Sikalima; Baron Yankonde; Cynthia Banda Kas...; Ruth Nakazwe; Andrew Mwandila; Fatim Cham; Michael Njuguna; Bertha Simwaka; Linden Morrison; Joseph Yamweka Ch...; John Bwalya Muma; Roma Chilengi; Karen Sichinga
• Keywords: Capacity Building; Antimicrobial Stewardship; Stewardship; Capacity development

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health problem exacerbated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics inadequate capacity laboratories to conduct AMR surveillance. This study assessed in seven faith-based hospitals testing surveillance Zambia. multi-facility, cross-sectional exploratory was conducted from February 2024 April 2024. We collected analysed data using self-scoring Laboratory Assessment Antibiotic Resistance Testing Capacity (LAARC) tool. found an average score 39%, indicating low The highest 47%, while lowest 25%. Only one hospital had full (100%) utilise laboratory information system (LIS). Three satisfactory perform management with scores 83%, 85%, 95%. process specimens, only good safety requirements for microbiology laboratory, 89%. demonstrates that all surveillance, which could affect diagnostic stewardship. Therefore, there urgent need strengthen enhance