How to start an antimicrobial stewardship programme in a hospital

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Infectious Disease Control
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are essential for optimizing antimicrobial use and improving patient outcomes.
• These programs aim to mitigate adverse events, including antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• Hospital AMS programs are a key component of national strategies to combat AMR, though optimal implementation remains under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a practical, step-by-step guide for healthcare professionals on initiating and implementing hospital AMS programs.
• To outline the essential components of an effective AMS program.
• To present the evidence supporting the implementation of AMS initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A review of national and society-led guidelines on antimicrobial stewardship.
• Analysis of peer-reviewed publications relevant to AMS programs.
• Incorporation of practical experience from AMS experts in program implementation.

Main Results:

• The study offers a pragmatic, step-by-step framework for establishing hospital AMS programs.
• The guide is applicable to both high-income and low-and-middle-income countries.
• It details the necessary components and evidence base for successful AMS program implementation.

Conclusions:

• Hospital AMS programs are critical for national action plans against AMR.
• Effective AMS programs, especially when combined with infection prevention and control, significantly reduce AMR.
• This guide empowers healthcare professionals to design and implement optimal AMS strategies.