BACKGROUND

The rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health challenge. Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a pivotal role in combating AMR by implementing effective preventive strategies and adhering to good practices. This study aimed to evaluate the global knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of HCWs towards AMR.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was conducted for English-language articles published up to August 2024. Inclusion criteria were observational studies reporting KAP data among HCWs related to AMR. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Statistical analyses, including heterogeneity (I² statistic, Cochran Q), were conducted using STATA version 14. Random-effects models were applied for pooled estimates, and subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Publication bias was assessed via Egger's test and adjusted using the trim-and-fill method. Geographical distribution was analyzed with ArcGIS 10.3 software, and evidence certainty was evaluated using the GRADE framework.

RESULTS

A meta-analysis of 108 studies involving 29,433 HCWs assessed their knowledge of AMR. Additionally, 51 studies with 13,660 HCWs evaluated attitudes, and 43 studies with 10,569 HCWs examined practices regarding AMR. The pooled proportion of HCWs with good knowledge of AMR was 56.5% (95% CI: 50.4-62.6%, I² = 99.5%), with the highest prevalence in Europe (70.3%) and the lowest in the Western Pacific (45.9%). Positive attitudes towards AMR were reported in 60.4% (95% CI: 48.5-72.3%, I² = 99.8%), with the highest prevalence in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (64.5%) and among those with less than five years of experience (77.8%). Good practices were observed in 48.5% (95% CI: 36.5-60.5%, I² = 99.7%), with the highest adherence in Europe (56.6%) and the lowest in Africa (39.1%). Subgroup analysis revealed that younger HCWs (under 30 years) showed better KAP scores across all domains.

CONCLUSION

The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of HCWs regarding AMR. Priority should be given to designing and implementing robust training programs tailored to the specific needs of HCWs in resource-constrained settings. Strengthening AMR-related education and practice among HCWs is crucial for combating the global AMR crisis effectively.