ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING PATTERNS AND STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SEPSIS AND HEALTHCARE-ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS PROTOCOL

This systematic review aims to synthesize published evidence on antibiotic prescribing patterns and antimicrobial stewardship practices in the management of sepsis and healthcare -associated infections(HAIs). Existing studies report substantial variability in antimicrobial prescribing practices across hospital settings, particularly regarding empirical therapy, broad-spectrum antibiotic use, stewardship implementation, and guideline adherence. This review will systematically examine studies reporting prescribing practices, antimicrobial utilization patterns, and stewardship-related interventions among hospitalized patients with sepsis and HAIs. Particular attention will be given to regional variations and evidence from African healthcare settings. Findings from this review are expected to support efforts aimed at strengthening antimicrobial stewardship and improving evidence-based prescribing practices in hospital settings