Conectar
The objective of this study was to explore medical practitioners’ understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its aspects, such as its causes, possible outcomes and how doctors can contribute to its prevention.
This qualitative study was conducted in Sri Lankan healthcare settings.
Using convenience sampling, the study included allopathic medical practitioners aged 18–60 years, excluding intern-medical officers, until data saturation.
One-on-one interviews were conducted online or in person, depending on each participant’s preference. A structured questionnaire was used to triangulate the information.
Data were categorised into four: (1) understanding, awareness and identifying AMR as an issue among medical practitioners, (2) knowledge and understanding of factors that contribute to AMR development among medical practitioners, (3) knowledge and understanding of the outcome of AMR and (4) knowledge and understanding of preventive measures against AMR among medical officers. Interviewees showed an awareness of AMR; however, their knowledge was not up to date. Key reasons for inappropriate antibiotic use included unavailability and poor quality of antibiotics and unawareness of updated guidelines, especially in the government sector. In the private sector, patient pressure, the need to attract patients and the high cost of investigations contributed to misuse. Additionally, low patient literacy about AMR was a significant factor.
This study revealed that although medical practitioners in Sri Lanka are aware of AMR, their knowledge remains limited in certain areas. Several challenges contributed to inappropriate antibiotic use, including the availability and quality of antibiotics, external pressures from patients and financial constraints. The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for continuous medical education and public awareness campaigns to improve both practitioner and patient understanding of AMR. Addressing these issues is essential for effectively preventing and managing AMR in healthcare settings in Sri Lanka.
To explore the caregiving experiences and support needs of fathers of children with medical complexity in Canada.
A qualitative study guided by interpretive description methodology and informed by a Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) lens.
Data were collected through 60-min semi-structured interviews with seven fathers of children with medical complexity and analyzed using thematic analysis. The study followed the COREQ guidelines and checklist.
Thematic analysis identified fathers' key roles as financial providers, hands-on caregivers, and as playing a key role in supporting their partners emotionally with the challenges of caregiving. Fathers prioritised the need for peer support, flexible workplace policies and improved access to mental health services.
The findings indicate that there is a critical need for more inclusive and flexible support systems and workplace policies that acknowledge and accommodate the important caregiving roles of fathers of children with medical complexity.
The implications for healthcare professionals include actively involving fathers in care planning and providing targeted support services that recognise their roles to enhance child and family outcomes.
We worked closely with our community advisory team, comprised of a physician, social worker and community organisation leader, who contributed to the study design, supported participant recruitment, and assisted in disseminating the findings back to the community, helping to ensure the research was grounded in and responsive to the needs of families of children with medical complexity.
FreshRSS 