What is antimicrobial stewardship and why is it important?

bowhouse

Antimicrobial stewardship is a programme in a healthcare setting promoting the appropriate use of antibiotics. It also aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce the spread of multi-drug resistance organisms. Proper antimicrobial stewardship helps to reduce antimicrobial resistance and prevent a global health crisis.

The goal is:

  • to use the RIGHT antibiotic
  • for the RIGHT person
  • at the RIGHT time

The primary goal of antimicrobial stewardship is to get the best clinical outcomes while minimising unintended consequences e.g. resistance and adverse effects of antimicrobials.