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Considerations in antimicrobial prescribing
Abstract:
Soon after antimicrobial drugs became available, it was recognized that they were being overused and misused. Reasons for concern about the inappropriate use of antimicrobials include the emergence of resistant nosocomial bacteria, which have been identified in every hospital nationwide. The presence of resistant nosocomial bacteria presents the physician with a clinical problem and increases the cost of therapy. It is clear that methods need to be implemented to help physicians improve prescribing of antimicrobial agents. As health care practitioners in all fields strive to make patient care more cost-effective, one observation has become evident: The successfully treated patient consumes fewer resources and subsequently costs the hospital less than an otherwise similar, unsuccessfully treated patient. The goal in the 1990s is to provide optimal, cost-effective care for patients without compromising quality. This goal can be achieved by collaborative efforts of physicians, pharmacists, and microbiologists working together as a team to promote quality patient care.
Insights
Antimicrobial drug overuse leads to resistant bacteria, increasing healthcare costs. Collaborative efforts among physicians, pharmacists, and microbiologists are essential for improving prescribing and ensuring cost-effective patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Health Economics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Antimicrobial drug overuse and misuse have been recognized since their introduction.
- Inappropriate antimicrobial use contributes to the emergence of resistant nosocomial bacteria nationwide.
- Resistant bacteria pose significant clinical challenges and increase healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the problem of antimicrobial resistance due to overuse.
- To emphasize the need for improved antimicrobial prescribing practices.
- To advocate for collaborative strategies to enhance patient care quality and cost-effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- The abstract does not detail specific methods but discusses observations and goals.
- It emphasizes the need for implementing methods to improve physician prescribing.
- It highlights the importance of a team approach involving physicians, pharmacists, and microbiologists.
Main Results:
- Antimicrobial resistance is a widespread problem in hospitals.
- Successfully treated patients consume fewer resources, leading to lower hospital costs.
- Optimizing antimicrobial use is crucial for cost-effective healthcare.
Conclusions:
- Collaborative efforts between physicians, pharmacists, and microbiologists are vital.
- Improving antimicrobial prescribing is key to combating resistance.
- The goal is to provide optimal, cost-effective patient care without compromising quality.