Unveiling the Knowledge Gap Regarding Standard Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Infective Endocarditis Among Physicians, Dentists and Cardiologists in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study assesses the understanding of antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines for infective endocarditis among medical professionals in Pakistan.

Contribution

The study identifies a knowledge gap among physicians, dentists, and cardiologists regarding current antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines for infective endocarditis.

Findings

Most participants identified rheumatic heart disease and heart transplant as conditions requiring antibiotic prophylaxis.

Other questions showed average knowledge levels, indicating a general lack of awareness about current guidelines.

Abstract

Introduction: Infective endocarditis is a microbial infection of the endocardial surface of the native and prosthetic valves. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge regarding the current guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis for infective endocarditis.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among physicians, cardiologists, and dentists in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The questionnaire was distributed as Google Forms among the required population, and responses were collected on a Google Response Sheet.

Results: The participants viewed rheumatic heart disease (83.7%) and heart transplant (96.7%) as the most vulnerable conditions that warrant the need for antibiotic prophylaxis. The other questions yielded average responses.

Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize the importance of adhering to standard guidelines and highlight the need for knowledge of the current guidelines.

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