Antimicrobial Stewardship Knowledge Gaps among Healthcare Professionals at a Ghanaian Tertiary Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study

Key Takeaways for GI Nurses

• Knowledge gaps in antimicrobial stewardship exist across healthcare teams, highlighting the need for targeted education programs that include GI and endoscopy nursing staff who frequently encounter patients requiring prophylactic antibiotics
• Nurses play a critical coordinated role alongside prescribers and pharmacists in antimicrobial stewardship, making our participation essential for combating antimicrobial resistance in GI and endoscopy settings
• Inappropriate antimicrobial use contributes directly to antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based antibiotic protocols for endoscopic procedures and post-procedure infections
• International findings on stewardship knowledge gaps may reflect similar challenges in domestic healthcare settings, suggesting the need for ongoing professional development in antimicrobial stewardship principles

Clinical Relevance

This study underscores the critical importance of antimicrobial stewardship education for endoscopy and GI nursing professionals. In our practice settings, we regularly encounter situations requiring antimicrobial decision-making, from pre-procedure prophylaxis for high-risk endoscopic interventions to post-procedure infection management. The finding that knowledge gaps exist across healthcare professionals highlights an opportunity for nursing leadership in stewardship initiatives, particularly given our frequent patient contact and medication administration responsibilities.

The coordinated approach to antimicrobial stewardship mentioned in this research directly applies to endoscopy unit operations. GI nurses are uniquely positioned to identify early signs of infection, monitor for antimicrobial-related adverse effects, and ensure appropriate timing of prophylactic antibiotics for procedures such as ERCP, EUS-guided interventions, or PEG tube placements. Our role extends beyond medication administration to include patient education about proper antibiotic use and the importance of completing prescribed courses.

From a professional development perspective, this research suggests that antimicrobial stewardship competency should be integrated into continuing education programs for GI nursing staff. Understanding the principles of appropriate antimicrobial use, recognizing resistance patterns, and participating in multidisciplinary stewardship rounds can enhance our clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. The emphasis on coordinated effort reinforces the collaborative nature of modern healthcare and positions nurses as essential partners in combating antimicrobial resistance.

Bottom Line

This research reinforces that antimicrobial stewardship is not solely the responsibility of prescribers and pharmacists—GI and endoscopy nurses are integral team members whose knowledge and actions directly impact patient outcomes and the broader fight against antimicrobial resistance. Investing in stewardship education for nursing staff and actively participating in coordinated antimicrobial initiatives should be prioritized in every endoscopy unit to ensure optimal patient care and preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapies for future patients.