Etiquette of the Antibiotic Decision-making Process for Surgical Prophylaxis in Ethiopia: A Triangulated Ethnographic Study
Etiquette of the Antibiotic Decision-making Process for Surgical Prophylaxis in Ethiopia: A Triangulated Ethnographic Study
By: Getachew Alemkere, Gobezie Temesgen Tegegne, Getnet A. Molla, Alemu Belayneh, Hanan Muzeyin, Wendosen Shewarega, Yidnekachew Degefaw, Addisu Ejigu, Workineh Getahun, Hailu Tadeg, Abebe Alemayehu, Eshetu Girma, and Wondwossen A. Degu
Publication: Frontiers in Public Health; Vol. 11, 2023. DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1251692
The study aimed to investigate the antibiotic decision-making process for surgical prophylaxis at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The observational study, conducted from August 26, 2021, to January 1, 2022, revealed infrequent discussions on surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP) during ward rounds, leading to practices deviating from established recommendations. Clear documentation distinguishing SAP from other antibiotic uses was lacking, contributing to unjustified extended SAP use in the postoperative period. The absence of standardized guidelines, delegation of SAP decision-making, and insufficient representation from pharmacy and nursing during ward rounds were identified as factors hindering evidence-based SAP decisions. The study suggests that engaging SAP care services and implementing antimicrobial stewardship practices could optimize SAP usage and reduce surgical site infection risks.