Self Prescription of Antibiotics by Latin Americans in a Clinical Setting

Laura K. Padilla, MSN, RN, Orvis School of Nursing, University of Nevada-Reno, NV Self Prescription of Antibiotics by Latin Americans in a Clinical Setting

Background: Self prescription of antibiotics is a worldwide public health problem associated with increased microbial resistance and subsequent negative health outcomes. Latin Americans commonly practice self prescription and are the fastest growing sub-group of the United States population. The aim of this study was to provide the first prevalence estimate of self prescription by Latin Americans in northern Nevada, and identify factors associated with this cultural practice.

Methods: A self-administered, bi-lingual survey was distributed to adult participants (N = 120) at two primary clinic sites which provide immunizations to the local population. Prevalence was estimated for self-prescription of antibiotics. Effect associated with ethnicity, was estimated by logistic regression analysis adjusting the odds ratio (OR) for gender and age.

Results: This study found that 58% of Latin American participants, and 24% of non-Latin American participants practiced self-prescription of antibiotics. Alarmingly, 100% of Spanish-speaking only participants reported self prescription. There was a four-fold higher odds that Latin Americans, compared with non-Latin Americans, used antibiotics without medical prescription (adjusted OR = 4.82 [95% CI: 1.97-11.81]). Latin American participants obtained antibiotics from friends and family or bought antibiotics abroad. A lack of health insurance was the primary reason for self prescription. Amoxicillin was the most common self-prescribed antibiotic.

Conclusions: This study identified the need for primary, secondary and tertiary health prevention efforts to address antibiotic misuse within this vulnerable population. To reduce health disparities within this sub-group, it is essential that public health nurses and clinicians understand this practice and provide culturally-competent care.