Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP) administration before surgery is evidence-based practice for prevention of Surgical site infections (SSIs). The aim of study was to investigate the pattern of surgical procedures and appropriate use of SAP in teaching hospital of Islamabad, Pakistan. A one-month prospective, descriptive observational pilot study. A total of 235 surgical procedures were investigated during study period through random systematic sampling technique. Important data was collected from patients’ medical charts through specialized data collection form and observed practices compared with updated standard treatment guidelines. Majority of the patients 137 (58%) were male. Clean surgical wound procedures were 120 (51%) and clean contaminated were 115 (49%). Most frequently performed surgeries were Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (n=64; 27.2%) followed by Incisional Hernia (n=40; 17%). The choice of antimicrobial was correct in only 36 (15.3%) patients. Most patients received Ceftriaxone (n=66; 28%) and Metronidazole (n=53, 22.5%). Timing of administration was appropriate in 93 (39.5%) cases. The use of SAP with respect to right choice and timing shows statistically significant difference among surgical procedures; P = 0.001. All patients received antimicrobial intravenously (100%). Current pilot scale research, reveals low adherence rate with standard treatment guidelines. Continuous educational training, implementation of local and international treatment guidelines and antimicrobial stewardship programme are required for appropriate utilization of SAP.

Keywords: Antimicrobials. Prescribing Pattern. Surgical Site Infections. guidelines adherence.