Percepções e conhecimento dos pacientes e provedores de saúde sobre o uso de antibióticos para o tratamento das infecções respiratórias superiores e a resistência antibiótica no Hospital Geral da Polana Caniço entre Julho e Agosto de 2025.

Abstract

Introduction: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are one of the leading reasons for seeking primary healthcare worldwide. Although they are predominantly caused by viruses, the use of antibiotics for the treatment of URTIs remains notable in Mozambique, across the African continent, and globally. Numerous studies identify the inappropriate use of antibiotics as a major driver for the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance. The objective of this study was to assess the perceptions and knowledge of patients and healthcare providers regarding the use of antibiotics for treating URTIs, as well as their understanding of antibiotic resistance, at the Polana Caniço General Hospital (HGPC). Methodology: A descriptive, qualitative study was conducted involving patients presenting with URTIs and healthcare providers at the HGPC in Maputo City between July and August 2025. Data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews for patients and open-ended questionnaires for healthcare providers. Data analysis was performed using thematic and content analysis methods, categorizing responses and including illustrative quotes from the participants. Results: The study included 31 patients, aged 18 to 56, and 11 healthcare providers. The majority of patients were women (74.2%), had completed primary education (41.9%), and had previously sought healthcare at the HGPC (74.2%). All healthcare providers were medical professionals: 63.6% were physicians, and 36.4% were medical technicians. For patients, themes identified included experiences with self-medication, difficulties in distinguishing antibiotics from other types of medication, failure to complete full courses of treatment, the practice of keeping leftover antibiotics, improper disposal of antibiotics, and a lack of awareness regarding antibiotic resistance. For healthcare providers, themes identified included the prescription of antibiotics in cases where the etiology was not confirmed, the presence of comorbidities, clinical and social pressure to provide a therapeutic solution for patients, the use of non-pharmacological therapies, and the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). Conclusion: The participants' perceptions reveal gaps in knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use among patients, as well as irregularities in rational prescribing by healthcare providers. Educational campaigns aimed at both patients and healthcare providers are recommended to raise awareness about antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance, with the goal of addressing perceptions, knowledge, practices, and expectations that do not align with scientific guidelines. It is recommended that educational campaigns be implemented for both patients and healthcare providers to improve their understanding of antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance.