Abstract

Sristi Ganguly*, Kiran C. Pankaj and Saroj K. Satpathy

ABSTRACT

Background: Antimicrobial resistance is one of the top ten threats to public health worldwide, in which society plays a pivotal role. Irrational prescribing trends by doctors and easy availability of antimicrobials over the counter, and parents’ attitudes and beliefs regarding antibiotics, assume prime importance. This study attempts to understand the parenteral perception of antibiotics use in children, and the factors responsible for a favourable attitude towards the same. Methodology: This is a hospital based cross-sectional study, enrolling parents of children aged upto 14 years, in SCBMCH and SVPPGIP, Cuttack, during March 2019 to September 2019. A structured questionnaire was administered, including socio-demographic details and twenty statements to assess their attitude. A scoring system employed with +1 and -1 for favourable and unfavourable response, and 0 for uncertain. A total score >0 was considered favourable attitude. Data was analysed with Chi- square test and percentages, using SPSS 18. Results: 30.7% and 26.3% felt antibiotics were needed to cure fever and cold respectively. 38.7% were unaware of side-effects of antibiotics and 42.3% refuted the phenomenon of resistance.55% found using antibiotics without consulting a doctor to be acceptable. 33% even requested the doctor for antibiotics. 37% admitted discontinuing the antibiotics upon recovery. 53.3% had an overall favourable attitude towards antibiotic use. Child’s age (p 0.003), mother’s education (p 0.036), income (p 0.009), socioeconomic status (p