Antibiotic Utilization in Nephrological and Respiratory Infections: A Prospective Cohort Observational Study

Abstract

Antibiotic utilization plays a vital role in healthcare by ensuring effective bacterial infection management while mitigating resistance risks. This study aims to examine the pattern of antibiotic utilization in respiratory and nephrological disease. A prospective cohort observational study was conducted over six months in the nephrology and respiratory wards, involving 200 patients, following approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee of GCS Medical College & Research Centre. Patients aged 18 years or older with diagnosed nephrological or respiratory conditions who provided informed consent were included, while those with incomplete medical records were excluded. Statistical analysis involved mean, mode, and percentage. Our findings shows that antibiotic prescriptions were more common among male patients, with AKI on CKD (15.5%) and LRTI (19%) being the most frequently observed conditions. Prophylactic antibiotic use significantly reduced infection risks, particularly in nephrology patients. In the respiratory department, 62.54% of prescriptions were based on suspected infections. Cephalosporins were the most commonly used antibiotics. This study concluded that appropriate utilization of antibiotics is crucial for ensuring their continued effectiveness and minimizing the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance. A multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public is necessary to combat AMR and safeguard global health for future generations.