Practical checklist for implementation of antifungal stewardship programmes

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Antifungal resistance is increasing due to antifungal overuse and misuse in healthcare settings.
• Existing recommendations provide core elements but lack a practical implementation framework for antifungal stewardship programs.
• A need exists for a structured approach to implement effective antifungal stewardship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a practical checklist for implementing antifungal stewardship programs in healthcare facilities.
• To align with global best practices for antifungal stewardship.
• To provide a tangible tool for healthcare institutions.

Main Methods:

• A national consensus panel of experts in antifungal stewardship was convened.
• A preliminary checklist was developed and circulated among experts.
• The final checklist was approved by the panel through consensus after discussion and resolution of disagreements.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive checklist was established, encompassing key areas for antifungal stewardship.
• The checklist includes essential components: leadership support, optimal use strategies, monitoring of prescribing and resistance, and education.
• The developed tool provides a structured framework for program implementation.

Conclusions:

• The antifungal stewardship checklist facilitates the containment of antifungal resistance.
• Implementing this checklist promotes the optimal use of antifungals in healthcare.
• Antifungal stewardship activities are crucial for managing resistance and improving patient outcomes.