Abstract

GUANCHE GARCELL, Humberto et al. Quality of antimicrobial prescription in surgical services. Rev Cubana Cir [online]. 2009, vol.48, n.4. ISSN 0034-7493.

INTRODUCTION: Inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a fundamental factor related to antimicrobial resistance. The evidence of its increase in "Joaquín Albarrán" Hospital was the reason to assess the quality of antimicrobial prescription in surgical services. METHODS: Between May and December, 2008 a descriptive study was conducted. Point prevalence was studied by means of evaluation of patients admitted during a day of each month of the study period. A tool to evaluate the prescription quality was designed and it was applied by two researchers. In a second stage, experts in antibiotics use analyzed the results and determined the inappropriate prescriptions. Ratio of proper use of antimicrobials and of inappropriate prescription was estimated. RESULTS: A total of 511 patients was evaluated, in 229 (44,7%) of them antimicrobials were used. Otorhinolaryngology and proctology services had the higher frequencies in its use (66,7%) and in Surgery service it was lower (36,6%). Frequency of inappropriate use was generally of 50%, higher in Urology services (66,7%), Angiology (60%), and Proctology (50%). The main reason of a inappropriate prescription was when its use was not prescribed or was not necessary (35 patients), and the incorrect prophylactic use or improper length of treatment (31 patients). CONCLUSIONS: Inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a problem in surgical services evidencing deficiencies in adherence to use policies and emphasize the need of a strengthening of the quality control of its prescription.

Keywords : Antimicrobial use; quality; surgical services; hospital.

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