Community Antimicrobial Use Scale

Go to measure

Characteristics
Domains assessed: Conceptual Knowledge, Numeracy, Organizational Health Literacy
Specific context: General Health Promotion, Health Promotion
Validation sample population age: Adults: 18 to 64 years, Older Adults: 65+ years
Modes of administration in validation study : Computer-based
Assessment: Self-reported
Cost: Free

Psychometrics
Sample size in validation study: 1283
Administration Time (minutes): 10 minutes
Language of validated version: English

Main article reference

Ramdas, N., Schellack, N., Uys, C., Godman, B., Campbell, S. M., & Meyer, J. C. (2026). Psychometric validation of the Community Antimicrobial Use Scale (CAMUS) in primary healthcare and the implications for future use. Antibiotics, 15(1), 107. https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15010107

Link to article

Corresponding author
user
Nishana Ramdas
Contact the corresponding author for this tool

Description

The CAMUS is a multidimensional, theory-based scale designed to evaluate patient level drivers of antimicrobial use. It captures five distinct domains influencing medication engagement, such as understanding of antibiotics, social and behavioral norms, non-prescribed use, understanding of antimicrobial resistance, and attitudes/beliefs.

Year Measure first Published: 2026

Additional Articles:

About This Measure
Categorical scoring: No
Modern Approach for Tool Development: Yes

About the Validation of this Measure
Country where validated: South Africa
Content validity: The 30 items were derived from a systematic scoping review of community drivers and grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour, Health Belief Model, and Social Cognitive Theory, followed by expert review and a 30 patient pilot test to refine clarity and clinic workflow feasibility.
Criterion validity: Construct and concurrent validity were confirmed via significant positive correlations with general health literacy scores measured by the HELT-LL tool (r=0.48, p<0.001) and self-reported appropriate antibiotic use intentions (r=0.42, p<0.01).
Reliability (Cronbach Alpha): 0.62
lightbulb

We would love your feedback on this measure. Please send your comments or questions to the Tool Shed.
Send Feedback

Contact Corresponding Author, Nishana Ramdas

Please complete all fields

Contact us about Community Antimicrobial Use Scale

Please complete all fields