Identification of Factors Contributing to the Misuse of Antimicrobial Agents Among Residents of a Riverine Community in South-South Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge, usage and resistance of antimicrobials among residents of Abonnema in Akuku- Toru Local Government Area of Rivers state, Nigeria. The study design is a descriptive study. A sample size of 252 was used while semi structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents. Frequency, percentages, and Chi-square statistics were used to analyze the data obtained. The results revealed that, majority (95%) had adequate level of knowledge of antimicrobial. Majority experienced side effects of vomiting after taking antimicrobial; 4.4% had fever, 2.0% coughed, 1.2% experienced drowsiness and 17,5% had other side effects. 1.6% had taken Flagyl, 0.8% Septrin, 0.4% Fluconazole, 0.4% Albendazole, 0.8%Tetracycline, 0.8% Clotrimazole, 0.8% have taken ACT and 3.2% took another antimicrobial with 91.0% haven taken more than one antimicrobial combination. The study also revealed that the practice of antimicrobial usage revealed that majority 89 (35.3%) visited medicine shop. Majority of the respondents 66.3% complied with prescription instruction. The study concluded that there is high level of knowledge of antimicrobial, its usage and the resistance associated with it. It was recommended that there should be public enlightenment regarding the importance and dangers associated with antimicrobial use.