Knowledge architecture in antimicrobial therapy: from cluster stratification to correlation map

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 15:26:01 +0000

Objective.

To conduct an in-depth analysis of the competence structure in rational antimicrobial therapy (AMT) among healthcare professionals and students to identify typical knowledge profiles and determine priorities for Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) educational programs.

Materials and Methods.

The study employed a two-stage statistical analysis of survey data. The first stage used the k-means clustering method to stratify respondents based on their knowledge structure. The second stage involved a correlation analysis of responses to assess the internal connectivity («architecture») of key knowledge domains and identify integrative nodes.

Results.

A total of six discrete competence clusters (profiles) were identified, differing qualitatively not only in overall proficiency but also in internal structure. Professional status was not a guarantee of systemic knowledge: the cluster with a total deficit included practicing physicians, while clusters of «limited expertise» demonstrated high performance in narrow areas alongside weak foundational principles. Correlation analysis identified questions concerning the principles of rational antimicrobial combinations and dosing as key integrative nodes, with low performance on these nodes observed in most clusters. The successful profile (Cluster 1) was characterized by strong interconnections between these nodes, reflecting a formed systemic knowledge model.

Conclusions.

Competencies in AMT are heterogeneous, mosaic, and structurally dependent. The findings justify a transition from uniform training programs to stratified and targeted educational interventions within AMS frameworks. A strategic priority is reinforcing key integrative nodes (principles of antimicrobial combinations and dosing), which has a multiplicative effect on the overall knowledge architecture. The proposed methodology provides a tool for diagnosing structural deficits, planning personalized educational strategies, and evaluating their effectiveness based on the analysis of qualitative shifts in competence profiles.

medical education on КМАХ

Knowledge architecture in antimicrobial therapy: from cluster stratification to correlation map

Objective.

Materials and Methods.

Results.

Conclusions.