Participatory action research for global antibiotic stewardship network in CPLP: mixed-method study

Abstract

Abstract Background Antibiotic stewardship services (ABS) contribute to antibiotic resistance (AR) global monitoring. Aiming at co-implement an ABS network within the Portuguese-speaking setting (CPLP), by enabling the evidence translation and second opinion between the countries, we surveyed Cape Verdean (CV) health professionals (HP) perceptions about AR prevention and control, assessing ABS opportunities. Methods A Design Science with Participatory Action Research establishes a contextualized ABS process. This mixed-method study addressed the first 2 stages, the problem and objectives. Quantitative study considered the HP’s answers (56 HP; 2 hospitals) to a questionnaire, about their perception on AR and ABS. Qualitative study set-up 10 open-ended structured interviews, clinical shift observation in 2 pilot-services (1 hospital), and meetings with key-elements for ABS, including leadership. Results Key-stakeholders for ABS multidisciplinary teamwork were identified. Preliminary results are: 1. HP reveal some knowledge but lack of awareness on AR and ABS (eg. 34% don’t recognize the AR local threat); 2. The absence of guidelines and lack of access to key-information affect prescribing confidence (eg. only 46% HP consider microbiology results in deciding antibiotherapy); 3. Priorities for a pilot service are the lack of qualified HP, the need to optimize material resources management and stock procurement, and the need for better access to patient’s clinical and prescription information; 4. Digital resources and telemedicine system can be facilitators. Top-down communication and support are essential for the ABS process sustainability. Conclusions A Global ABS network can be important in promoting prevention and effective control of AR, reducing differences between the CPLP countries. In CV, an educational program to support the co-design of ABS service and a decision-support information system are identified priorities. Digital health, like telemedicine, can be ABS facilitators. Key messages The implementation of a Global Antibiotic Stewardship network, aiming at reducing Portuguese-speaking Countries differences, could be leveraged by a Participatory Action Research process. An educational program, a decision-support information system and the telemedicine are key for the Global Antibiotic Stewardship network implementation success.