Factors Affecting Rational Antibiotic Use Behaviors in Patients With Chronic Disease In Sum Sub-District, Mueang Sisaket District, Sisaket Province

Abstract

The irrational use of antibiotics in patients with chronic diseases affects treatment outcomes, increases drug resistance, increases treatment costs. This study aims to elucidate irrational antibiotic use behaviours among chronic disease patients and the influencing factors in Sum Sub-District, Muang District, Sisaket Province, Thailand. The study employs the PRECEDE-PROCEED Model framework to design the research approach. A cross-sectional study design was conducted, involving 248 patients with chronic diseases. Selected through cluster random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed by the researcher based on a literature review. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics on predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors . The relationships between these factors and rational drug use behaviors  were tested using logistic regression analyses.

          The study found that 85% of patients with chronic diseases engaged in irrational drug use. Factors related to rational drug use included number of family members (p-value = .047), perception of severity, benefits, and barriers related to drug use (p-value = .035), the dissemination of drug use information from community or health organizations (p-value = .008), and encouragement and support from  healthcare personnel when using  antibiotics under prescription (p-value =.039). These findings highlight the importance of family members in encouraging rational drug use., Health organizations should support rational drug use information, promote the perception of rational drug use, and continue monitoring rational drug use among patients with chronic diseases.