Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health threat driven by inappropriate antibiotic use, particularly in hospital settings. Obstetric and neonatal populations are frequently exposed to antimicrobial agents, often for prophylactic purposes, which may contribute to unnecessary selection pressure.

Objective: To evaluate antimicrobial use patterns and identify key antimicrobial stewardship gaps in an obstetric and neonatal tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional point prevalence study was conducted including 142 hospitalized patients. Data were collected on antimicrobial use, indications, microbiological documentation, compliance with clinical guidelines, and antibiotic spectrum.

Results: Antimicrobials were prescribed in 40.8% of patients, reaching 100% in intensive care units. Prophylactic use accounted for 48%, exceeding recommended thresholds. Broad-spectrum antibiotics comprised 75% of prescriptions. Compliance with clinical guidelines was 72.4%, with significant interdepartmental variability. Microbiological confirmation was documented in 36.7% of cases. Consumption density was 1.4 prescriptions per patient.

Conclusion: Significant antimicrobial stewardship gaps were identified, including excessive prophylaxis and overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Targeted stewardship interventions are urgently required.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing global health challenges, largely driven by inappropriate and excessive antibiotic use. Hospital settings play a central role in this process, particularly in surgical, obstetric, and neonatal care, where antibiotics are frequently prescribed for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.

World Health Organization. Antimicrobial resistance report.

ECDC. Point prevalence survey of healthcare-associated infections.

CDC. Core elements of antibiotic stewardship.

Allegranzi B, et al. Lancet Infect Dis.

Laxminarayan R, et al. Lancet.