A study on knowledge, attitude and practice of antimicrobial resistance among medical and paramedical students in a teaching hospital

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health threat, and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in addressing it. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of medical and paramedical students towards AMR and judicious antibiotic use in a teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on 350 undergraduate medical and paramedical students at ACS Medical College and Hospital over three months. The questionnaire assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding AMR. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests and ANOVA. Results: Participants were aged 18–20 (56.3%) or 21–24 (43.7%), and 62.6% were women. Medical students comprised 55.1%, paramedical 44.9%. Good knowledge was observed in 72.3%, moderate in 24.6%, and poor in 3.1%. A positive attitude prevailed in 78.6% of the participants, neutral in 18.3%, and negative in 3.1%. Good, moderate, and poor practice was noted in 41.1 %, 49.1%, and 9.7% of the respondents, respectively. Comparable KAP scores between medical and paramedical groups revealed no significant differences in knowledge (p=0.8107), attitude (p=0.9956), and practice (p=0.6189) Conclusion: Students are aware of AMR and have positive attitudes towards responsible antibiotic use, but their practices do not align with this awareness. Recommendations include mandating antimicrobial stewardship and AMR awareness modules in the curriculum, developing interactive learning modules, conducting awareness campaigns, monitoring antibiotic use among students, and involving them in hospital AMR committees.