The Practice of Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Caesarean Delivery among Obtetricians and Trainee Obstetricians in Nigeria

Aims: Antibiotic prophylaxis is a recognized measure for preventing post-operative infection after Caesarean delivery and it is expedient that Obstetricians be aware and practice recommended regimen. This study aimed at ascertaining the knowledge and practice of antibiotic prophylaxis, and reason(s) behind any deviation from established standard among Nigerian Obstetricians.

Study Design: This is a cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the annual conference of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) held in November, 2015 at Abuja, Nigeria.

Methodology: A total of 191 consecutive residents and consultant Obstetricians returned correctly filled questionnaires during the survey carried out at the annual conference of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) held in November, 2015. The respondent’s demographic characteristics, practice of prophylactic antibiotics, awareness of evidenced-based regimen and reason for respondent’s regimen were obtained. The data was analyzed using Epi info version 3.5.4 (CDC, Atlanta, Georgia, USA).

Results: Most of the respondents were consultants [153(80.1%)], and all the respondents [191(100%)] were aware of antibiotic prophylaxis during Caesarean delivery. Nevertheless, only 124 knew about an evidence-based regimen, out of which 30(24.2%) practice it, while 94(75.8%) did not for fear of increased risk of post-operative sepsis that might result from poor aseptic techniques in the theatre.

Conclusion: Despite high awareness, there is non-conformity in observance of standard practice of antibiotic prophylaxis among Nigerian resident and consultant Obstetricians during Caesarean section.