Point-prevalence survey of antimicrobial use in intensive care units in Nepal.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and practices of antibiotic use in intensive care units (ICUs) in Nepal and to identify potential areas for implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs.

DESIGN: A point prevalence survey was conducted to characterize and quantify the antimicrobial utilization in level III ICUs of Nepal.

METHODS: Data on antibiotic prescription rates, reasons for prescribing antibiotics, and prescribing practices were collected and analyzed. The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance was also assessed.

RESULTS: The antibiotic prescribing rate was found to be very high, with 92.85% of patients in ICU on antibiotics. Prolonged surgical prophylaxis was the most common reason for prescribing antibiotics. Empirical therapy accounted for 67.5% of all antibiotic prescriptions. Prescribing practices were poor, with low adherence to guidelines and best practices. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were commonly used even for surgical prophylaxis or community-acquired infections. High resistance was observed against commonly used antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS: The study underscores the urgent need for effective antimicrobial stewardship programs in ICUs of Nepal. Implementing robust stewardship programs could help optimize antibiotic utilization, improve patient outcomes, and combat the global threat of antimicrobial resistance. The findings serve as a stepping stone toward understanding and improving antibiotic prescribing practices in ICUs of Nepal.