A Cross-Sectional Study of Knowledge of Anti-Microbial Resistance Among Health Workers Providing Primary Care in Public Primary Healthcare Facilities in Jos North LGA

Abstract

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the resistance of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) to an antimicrobial drug to which the organism was originally sensitive and/or effective for the treatment of infections. Primary HealthCare is the first level of contact for individuals, families, and communities with the national health system, bringing health as close as possible to where people live and work, and it constitutes the first element of a continuing healthcare process. The declining effectiveness of antimicrobials is driven by multiple factors, many of which can be addressed through a well-functioning primary health care.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out among 172 public primary health care facility workers. This study will be conducted in public PHC centers across Jos North LGA, in Plateau State, Nigeria. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires

Results: The study showed that among 172 participants, 111 (64.5%) had a poor understanding of antimicrobial resistance, 48 (27.9%) had an inadequate understanding, and 13 (7.6%) had a good understanding of antimicrobial resistance.

Conclusion: The study found that the majority of health workers had a poor understanding of AMR, and only a few were found to have adequate knowledge. The main source of knowledge about AMR among health workers was clinical practice, and factors such as gender and professional designation were relevant. Females and nurses/midwives were found to possess higher knowledge of AMR among participants, but this association was not statistically significant.