Reconsidering the nursing role in antimicrobial stewardship: a multisite qualitative interview study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Infectious Disease Management
• Public Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat.
• Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are crucial for combating AMR.
• Nursing roles in AMS are increasingly recognized as essential for effective infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Australian hospital nurses' perspectives on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and AMS.
• To identify opportunities and challenges for integrating nursing staff into antimicrobial optimization efforts.
• To understand how nurses can enhance their contribution to AMS within hospital settings.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing semi-structured, one-on-one interviews.
• Verbatim transcription of digitally audio-recorded interviews.
• Thematic analysis supported by the framework approach and sociological theory.

Main Results:

• Nurses currently play a peripheral role in AMS initiatives.
• AMS is viewed as a collaborative effort, with existing interprofessional tensions.
• Nurses identified potential to enhance antimicrobial optimization but face barriers.

Conclusions:

• Hospital nurses are strategically positioned to improve antibiotic optimization and AMS governance.
• Limited nursing integration in AMS is due to a lack of interprofessional cooperation, education, and resources.
• Addressing organizational and resource constraints is vital to maximize the nursing role in stewardship.