Evaluating antimicrobial use with an algorithm

An algorithm (integrated series of screening criteria) for evaluating antimicrobial use is described. The algorithm was initially designed during a survey of the antimicrobial use for 117 patients. After the survey, the criteria in the algorithm were refined by a literature search; 10 criteria in the algorithm were added, six of which concerned the prophylactic use of antimicrobials. Two hospitals used the algorithm and reported that it reduced the number of hours needed to establish final audit criteria.