Antimicrobial stewardship policy: time to revisit the strategy?

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2015 Nov;34(11):2167-70. doi: 10.1007/s10096-015-2483-x. Epub 2015 Sep 19.

Abstract

Recent data indicate that both the overall numbers of antibiotic prescription and the frequency of multidrug-resistant bacteria are increasing significantly. These threatening features are observed, despite national antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) policies aimed at decreasing antibiotic use. AMS should also focus on the initial steps leading to antibiotic prescription. Physicians and their patients should benefit from the structured clinical pathways, the latter being adapted to regional epidemiological data and resources. Continuous evaluation of these predefined clinical paths through a computerized medical dashboard will allow a critical review and finally the optimization of medical practices. These innovative behavioural approaches for clinicians will supply precise information on the relationship among the diagnosis, therapeutics and outcome. This changing environment will carry out the adapted therapeutic procedures, and appropriate antibiotic use will inherently improve.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Drug Prescriptions / standards*
  • Drug Utilization / standards*
  • Health Policy*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents