Antibiotics are chemical substances used to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause infections; therefore, their use must be appropriate and in accordance with medical indications. Irrational use of antibiotics can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, which has become a global health problem. Public knowledge and attitudes play an important role in determining antibiotic use behavior. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the level of knowledge and community attitudes toward antibiotic use in Padang Harapan Village. This study used a quantitative method with an observational analytic design through a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 108 respondents selected using proportional sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires that had been tested for validity and reliability. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Chi-Square test. The results showed that most respondents had good knowledge levels (78.7%) and positive attitudes toward antibiotic use (76.9%). Bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between knowledge level and community attitudes with a p-value of 0.000 (p<0.05). Respondents with better knowledge tended to have more positive attitudes toward antibiotic use. This study indicates that continuous health education is needed to improve public understanding of rational antibiotic use and prevent antibiotic resistance. Therefore, healthcare workers have an important role in providing accurate information regarding antibiotic use in the community. Efforts to improve public knowledge are expected to support appropriate, safe, effective, and rational antibiotic use in accordance with healthcare recommendations.
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