Resistência antimicrobiana e uso racional de antimicrobianos: percepções de estudantes de curso técnico em enfermagem no ambiente hospitalar

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance has been recognized as one of the greatest contemporary challenges to global public health, constituting a complex problem involving clinical, epidemiological, social, and educational factors. The inappropriate and indiscriminate use of antimicrobials significantly contributes to the emergence and dissemination of resistant microorganisms, compromising the effectiveness of treatments and increasing infection-related morbidity and mortality. As part of multiprofessional healthcare, nursing technicians play a central role in medication administration and, consequently, in the implementation of infection prevention and control practices. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the perceptions of Nursing Technician students regarding antimicrobial management and antimicrobial resistance in the hospital setting, relating this knowledge to their educational and training experiences. This qualitative study collected data through focus groups, which enabled the exploration of participants’ perceptions, knowledge, and experiences regarding the investigated topic. The sessions were conducted in three virtual meetings through the Microsoft Teams® platform, with groups of four to five students, and were recorded. Subsequently, the sessions were transcribed in full and subjected to thematic content analysis. This process allowed the identification of the following analytical categories: Nursing Technician students’ understanding of bacterial resistance; Practices related to antibiotic use; Barriers to the rational use of antimicrobials; and Strategies for preventing microbial resistance. The results showed that the students recognized the importance of appropriate antimicrobial use and associated the incorrect use of these medications with increased bacterial resistance and difficulties in treating infections. The participants demonstrated an understanding of healthcare professionals’ responsibility for the safe administration of medications and the prevention of adverse events related to antimicrobial therapy. Conceptual gaps were identified regarding the biological mechanisms involved in the development of antimicrobial resistance and institutional strategies aimed at preventing and controlling this problem, such as antimicrobial stewardship programs and patient safety protocols. Educational and training experiences, particularly those related to practical activities and supervised clinical placements, proved relevant to the development of students’ knowledge on the topic, contributing to a broader understanding of the complexity of antimicrobial use and the impacts of antimicrobial resistance on healthcare delivery. It is concluded that the students recognize the importance of the topic and preventive practices, although their knowledge is predominantly practical and operational. The findings highlight the need for pedagogical strategies that more effectively integrate theory and practice, moving beyond purely operational aspects. Qualifying this technical training is strategic to mitigating antimicrobial resistance and improving the quality of healthcare