Developing the first national antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship competences

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global healthcare.
• Antimicrobial stewardship programmes are crucial for controlling resistance and preserving antibiotic efficacy.
• Education on prudent antimicrobial use is essential for both healthcare staff and the public.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a framework of competences for antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship in England.
• To support the UK government's national strategy for combating antimicrobial resistance.
• To provide guidance for all independent prescribers in primary and secondary care.

Main Methods:

• Development of five dimensions for antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship competences.
• Utilized current evidence, regulatory documents, and national stewardship guidance.
• Involved an independent multiprofessional group led by the Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection (ARHAI).

Main Results:

• A set of five competences for antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship has been established.
• These competences are designed to complement existing prescriber competency frameworks.
• The framework is relevant to all independent prescribers, including doctors, dentists, and non-medical practitioners.

Conclusions:

• The developed competences represent a novel approach to antimicrobial stewardship in England.
• Implementation of these competences is expected to contribute significantly to the UK's 5-year Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy.
• This initiative aims to enhance the responsible use of antimicrobials across healthcare settings.