IMPLANTATION OF AN ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM IN A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL: A PILOT PROJECT

Abstract

The worldwide increase in bacterial resistance to antimicrobials (ATM) leads to monitoring these drugs’ rational use. This research aimed to describe the  Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (ASP) implementation of ATM clinical  management in a teaching hospital in the Brazilian Northeast, the pilot project’s initial actions, and results through a descriptive study, divided  into three phases. First: To choose program and ATM strategies and prepare  the form. Second: Training of pharmacists and identification of potential  application strategies. Third: Pilot study; team definition, monitoring, and  institutionalization flow. The strategies chosen were time management of  treatment, antimicrobial discontinuation, sequential oral therapy, and continuing education. The training focused on the pharmaceutical management of antimicrobial therapy and the application of the strategies  listed. The pilot study recommended 22 strategies to optimize the  pharmacotherapy. The Antimicrobial Stewardship Program’s implementation took place in an institutionalized way by the direction of the hospital, being  the guidelines agreed between pharmacy service, infection control committee, and a center for pharmaceutical studies. The pilot project  indicated an acceptance of about 68% of the strategies for optimizing  antimicrobial therapy. After analyzing the pilot project, it can be concluded  with the implantation of ASP the great and urgent importance of ATM management for the optimal use of this therapy in times of pan-resistance.