General practitioners' perceptions of antimicrobial resistance: a qualitative study

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is only one of a range of important influences on GPs decisions whether or not to prescribe an antibiotic and is not the most immediate. These influences all need to be taken into account when promoting a more cautious use of antibiotics in primary care. More information from microbiologist colleagues about local resistance would be clinically useful, but on its own, may paradoxically influence some GPs to prescribe newer, broader spectrum agents more often.

‘The Body Gets Used to Them’: Patients’ Interpretations of Antibiotic Resistance and the Implications for Containment Strategies

“…Studies of clinicians' use of the term confirm a scientific understanding. [8][9][10] However, two recent studies noted that patients have two different, perhaps overlapping, understandings of antibiotic resistance -that of resistance in the body versus the scientifically 'correct' understanding of resistance in bacteria. 3,4 Research into the public perception of antibiotic resistance has been undertaken largely without an awareness of multiple interpretations of the term 'antibiotic resistance'.…”

GPs' views in five European countries of interventions to promote prudent antibiotic use

“…[9][10][11] Previous research has found that decisions can be based on GPs' desire to maintain good patient relationships, 12,13 a result of GPs choosing to prioritise patients' immediate perceived demands over long-term issues, 14 or a result of worries about complications. 13,15,16 Authors concluded that guidelines should include information to help identify patients more at risk of complications, should emphasise patients' individual risk from antibiotics, and should emphasise positive aspects of non-antibiotic treatment.…”

Antibiotic Resistance and Infection Control: Physicians Aspects and Beliefs

“…This is reflected in physician's answers at the questionnaire and almost 70% of them believe that reducing antibiotic prescription would prove effective in regulating antibiotic resistance. The majority of the physicians had prescribed antibiotics the past six months, a practice that is considered to be a safer and more secure choice for treatment outcome [15]. Their prescribing choices were mostly affected by their clinical experience, their personal knowledge and training, necessary factors to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens [16].…”