The drugs don’t work: evaluation of educational theatre to gauge and influence public opinion on antimicrobial resistance

Publication date: Available online 16 October 2019Source: Journal of Hospital InfectionAuthor(s): Rabia Ahmed, Amreen Bashir, James E.P. Brown, Jonathan A.G. Cox, Anthony C. Hilton, Charlotte E. Hilton, Peter A. Lambert, Eirini Theodosiou, Jonathan Q. Tritter, Samuel J. Watkin, Tony WorthingtonSummaryIncreased public awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a key component of effective antimicrobial stewardship strategies. Educational theatre combined with an expert panel was used to engage the public about AMR through delivery of a play entitled “The drugs don’t work”. Audience knowledge and understanding of AMR were measured by pre- and post-play questionnaire. Delivery of the play and discussion with the expert panel significantly improved audience knowledge and understanding of AMR, including antibiotic misuse and prescribing. Educational theatre provides a positive learning experience and is an innovative method of public engagement to disseminate important public health messages.
Source: Journal of Hospital Infection - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research