Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Healthcare Setting

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious problem that poses an imminent threat to patient safety. But drug-resistant bacteria can be prevented from spreading in hospital facilities by implementing effective antimicrobial stewardship practices. Antimicrobial stewardship programs are a set of measures taken by an organization to optimize antimicrobial use, improve patient outcomes, reduce AMR and healthcare-associated infections, and save healthcare costs. Healthcare facilities should have a defined antimicrobial stewardship policy in place that is available to all stakeholders. The policy should be evidence-based, regularly updated, and communicated clearly both verbally and through visual means such as posters. All staff should be trained on the proper use of antimicrobials as well as how to report misuse. Antibiotic stewardship measures include: educating and screening patients, monitoring, updating policies, limiting the use of high-risk medications, developing and improving hand hygiene practices, tracing the path of each medication, using computerized alert probes, using computerized medication records, educating staff, and creating the culture of prevention. There are several ways that antimicrobial stewardship practices can be implemented in the healthcare setting, including limiting the use of antibiotics and promoting healthy behaviors. With these strategies in place, infections can be prevented from occurring in the first place.