Antimicrobial Stewardship
#Draft#
Introduction
Antimicrobials are used to prevent and treat infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants. These include:
- Antibiotics
- Antivirals
- Antifungals
- Antiparasitics
Over time, coupled with frequent use (due to misuse and overuse of antimicrobials), microbials can evolve and become resistant to existing antimicrobials.
- As a result, these medications become ineffective, and infections can persist in the body.
The 4 Moments of Antibiotic Decision Making
Initiation of antibiotic therapy
- Does my patient have an infection that requires antibiotics?
Decision to start antibiotics
- Have I ordered appropriate cultures before starting antibiotics?
- What empiric therapy should I intiate?
Every day of antibiotic therapy
- Can I stop antibiotics?
- Can I narrow therapy?
- Can I change from IV to oral therapy?
When infectious process is clear and patient responds to therapy
- What duration of antibiotic therapy is needed for my patient's diagnosis?
AWaRe Classification
The AWaRe classification of antibiotics was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to assist in antibiotic stewardship efforts at local, national and global levels.
- The AWaRe classification categorizes antibiotics into 3 groups based on their impacts on antimicrobial resistance and the important of their appropriate use.
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