Clinicians' perceptions of prescribing antibiotics for infections in the diabetic foot

Responsible use of antibiotics is high on the public health agenda. The management of infection within the diabetic foot is variable, partly due to a lack of consensus and evidence to guide management choices. Study aims: To explore and describe experiences and views regarding the clinical management of diabetic foot infections among specialist secondary care clinicians involved in the management of diabetic foot infections; to explore perceptions and awareness of antibiotic resistance; to explore whether there are any unknown factors that may contribute to the ‘non-pharmacological’ prescribing of antibiotics. Study design and methods: A phenomenological approach was used, with data collected in face to face interviews with specialist hospital clinicians including Consultant Physicians, Specialist Registrars, Consultant Microbiologist, Specialist Podiatrists and Consultant Vascular Surgeons within two acute hospital foundation trusts in the south of England. …