Implementation and evaluation of an antimicrobial stewardship program across nine hospitals in the United Arab Emirates: a qualitative study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAntimicrobial resistance is at the top of the World Health Organization's agenda. Subsequently, antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are being implemented worldwide. However, there is a lack of literature on AMS programs in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).AimThis study investigated AMS program activities and barriers and limitations to effective implementation of AMS programs within hospitals in Abu Dhabi.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted comprising semistructured interviews using a developed guide. Nine pharmacists from nine government and private hospitals were interviewed. All interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically.ResultsAnalysis of the interviews revealed five main themes: (1) institutional experiences of functional AMS programs in Abu Dhabi, with the greatest capacity for AMS programs found within government hospitals; (2) considerable agreement on the types of AMS program strategies used in hospitals; (3) an instrumental role of clinical pharmacists in the success of sustainable AMS programs; (4) effects of AMS programs on improving antimicrobial prescribing patterns and clinical outcomes; and (5) lack of clinical pharmacists and highly skilled staff as the main barrier to AMS program implementation.ConclusionThis study reveals the variable levels of AMS program implementation within Abu Dhabi hospitals. Participants reported excellent adoption of AMS programs by government hospitals compared with private sector hospitals. Participants also identified a lack of clinical pharmacists and highly skilled staff as the main limitations in AMS program implementation.