Antimicrobial stewardship in inpatient, as well as outpatient settings, is
crucial for preserving antimicrobial susceptibility, combating antibiotic resistance, and
reducing unnecessary antibiotic use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
as well as the World Health Organization, and various infectious diseases and
government organizations have developed guidance on how to implement stewardship
in different settings. A wide variety of practices are in place depending on the setting.
Examples include educational activities, antibiotic recommendations and restriction,
and facility guidelines. Stewardship practices are mandated in most healthcare settings,
and tracking of antibiotic use is important in maintaining good practices.
Keywords: Antibiotic resistance, Antibiotic use, Antimicrobial stewardship,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Days of therapy, Defined daily doses,
Metrics, Regulatory, Regulatory measures, Stewardship programs, World Health
Organization.
