Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Intensive Care Unit: Combating Resistance and Optimizing Therapy

Critical care nurses play a crucial role in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) within the intensive care unit, where their expertise is essential in combating resistance and optimizing therapy. Critical care nurses are at the forefront of patient care, ensuring the appropriate use of antimicrobials to minimize antimicrobial resistance and improve patient outcomes. Critical nurses collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement AMS strategies, such as monitoring and documenting antimicrobial use, educating patients and families about the importance of adherence to prescribed therapies, and advocating for the de-escalation of broad-spectrum antibiotic use when appropriate.