CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: AIIMS Bhopal’s Dr. Rishika A Receives ICMR PG Thesis Grant for Research on Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis
AIIMS Bhopal’s Executive Director, Ajay Singh, is fostering a tradition of academic excellence and knowledge exchange within the institution. Under his inspiration, faculty members and students are reaching new heights of excellence.
Recently, Dr. Rishika A., a third-year postgraduate (MD) student in the Department of Pharmacology at AIIMS Bhopal, was awarded the ICMR PG Thesis Grant for her research study titled:
“Evaluation of Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis (SAP) and the Impact of Implementing Antimicrobial Stewardship Interventions in Patients Undergoing Clean and Semi-Clean Surgeries.”
Recognizing the Importance of Antimicrobial Stewardship
On this remarkable achievement, Prof. Ajay Singh congratulated Dr. Rishika and praised her research, stating:
“Dr. Rishika’s study makes a significant contribution to the field of antimicrobial stewardship. Addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through research-based interventions is crucial for enhancing healthcare quality and patient safety. This recognition by ICMR highlights the importance of scientific research in shaping policy-making and clinical practices.”
Guidance and Research Focus
This research is being conducted under the guidance of Prof. Balkrishna S. (Pharmacology Department, AIIMS Bhopal) and Prof. Shilpa N. Kaore (Pharmacology Department). The study aims to:
✅ Optimize the use of antimicrobial drugs in surgical procedures
✅ Reduce Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)
✅ Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
The study focuses on intervention strategies such as training and education, prospective auditing, and focus group discussions among healthcare professionals to enhance compliance with national (ICMR) and global (WHO) antimicrobial guidelines.
Expert Contributions and Research Impact
The research is further supported by Dr. Ajay Shukla (Associate Professor, Pharmacology), Dr. Shubham Atal (Associate Professor, Pharmacology), and Dr. Swagat Brahmachari (Professor, General Surgery), who are co-guiding the project. Their valuable mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping this research.
Dr. Rishika’s work addresses key challenges in antimicrobial usage, including:
❌ Inappropriate antimicrobial prescriptions
❌ Prolonged medication use
❌ Incorrect drug selection in surgical prophylaxis
Her research has the potential to enhance compliance with guidelines, promote sustainable prescribing practices, and improve patient safety and treatment outcomes in surgical wards.
ICMR Grant – A Milestone in Public Health Research
Receiving the ICMR PG Thesis Grant underscores the importance of evidence-based interventions in antimicrobial stewardship. This achievement reinforces AIIMS Bhopal’s commitment to research excellence and public health advancements.
The study’s findings are expected to influence policy recommendations and clinical practices significantly, leading to better antimicrobial usage and improved therapeutic outcomes for patients.
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