# 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.

## Key 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.