Audit of Antibiotic Prescription Pattern for Surgical Prophylaxis and Estimating theProportion of Compliance with Existing Institutional Guidelines in a Tertiary Care Private Hospital in Kerala

Abstract

 This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of antibiotic prescription patterns for surgical prophylaxis and assesses adherence to institutional guidelines in a tertiary care hospital in Kerala. The retrospective cross-sectional analysis included 216 patients from various departments, with the highest proportions from Obstetrics and Gynecology (34%), General Surgery (26%), Urology (16%), and Orthopedics (11%). The findings revealed that overall compliance with the recommended choice of antibiotics, according to institutional guidelines, was 63.42%, while compliance with dosing guidelines was slightly lower at 57.15%. Cefuroxime was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic, used in 60% of cases, followed by Cefotaxime (16%), Ceftriaxone (4%), and Amoxicillin (4%). The study uncovered significant inconsistencies in antibiotic application, particularly concerning the selection and timing of administration. The study emphasizes the critical role of robust antimicrobial stewardship programs in promoting the rational use of antibiotics, which is essential for minimizing the risk of antibiotic resistance and improving patient outcomes. By identifying these critical areas of non-compliance, the study provides valuable insights that can inform the development of targeted interventions and updates to guidelines, aimed at enhancing adherence to best practices in surgical prophylaxis. Such initiatives are crucial for advancing patient care, ensuring safety, and mitigating the growing threat of antibiotic resistance in healthcare settings.