DOI: njcpt.com.ng/101.1.2.3
Corresponding Author. Email: pharmkenny@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Implementation of policies to support rational use of antimicrobials is needed to reduce the emergence of resistance to their activity.
Objectives: To explore pattern of medication prescribing in the management of infections at the Niger Delta University Health Centre (NDUHC), Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa state, Nigeria.
Methods: A retrospective observational study involving systematic random sampling of case notes of patients who presented with infections at NDUHC from January 1st to December 31st, 2019 was done. Each case note was assessed for patient's sociodemographics, infections treated, and antimicrobials prescribed, including their costs. All data obtained were analyzed as appropriate.
Results: Atotal of 334 patients' notes were identified for inclusion in this study. All case notes included were from adult patients, most of whom were students (99.4%) and females (68.6%). Average number of infections treated per patient was 1.64 ± 0.68, and only 39 (7.1%) of all cases treated were confirmed by means of appropriate laboratory tests. Common indications treated include malaria (33.6%), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), (23.0%), and respiratory tract infections (10.8%). Each patient received an average of 1.92 ± 0.95 antimicrobial agents per encounter. Several (39.7%) of the antimicrobials were written in their brand names, and the most prescribed groups were the antibacterial (39.2%) and antimalarial (30.8%) agents. On the average, antivirals at ₦ 2314.29 ± 664.40 per encounter were the most expensive of all.
Conclusion: Prescribers at primary care centres need to follow established guidelines when prescribing antimicrobials and document management pattern that can inform local sitespecific policies.
Keywords: Antimicrobial, Infections, Health Centre, Students, Nigeria.