Five steps to high quality antimicrobial stewardship research.

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat.
• Effective antimicrobial stewardship strategies are crucial for combating AMR.
• Current research on stewardship interventions needs enhancement in quality and reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the critical need for improved quality in antimicrobial stewardship intervention research.
• To propose actionable recommendations for researchers and practitioners in antimicrobial stewardship.
• To strengthen the evidence base supporting antimicrobial stewardship initiatives.

Main Methods:

• This review proposes a framework for enhancing antimicrobial stewardship research quality.
• The framework is summarized by the mnemonic ABCDE: Ahead, Be clear, Checklist, Design, Effectiveness.
• Recommendations include using implementation science, the TidIER checklist, study checklists, careful design selection, and meaningful outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• The ABCDE framework provides five key considerations for planning and evaluating stewardship interventions.
• Adherence to these recommendations aims to improve the clarity, reproducibility, and impact of research.
• Implementing these guidelines will enhance the quality of evidence for antimicrobial stewardship.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship research is essential to effectively combat AMR.
• The proposed ABCDE framework offers a practical approach to improving study design and reporting.
• Adoption of these recommendations will facilitate the optimal implementation of strategies to mitigate AMR.