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Antibiotic Stewardship Program Summary of Core Elements

  1. Leadership Commitment: Dedicating necessary human, financial, and information technology resources.
  2. Accountability: Appointing a single leader responsible for program outcomes. Experience with successful programs show that a physician leader is effective.
  3. Drug Expertise: Appointing a single pharmacist leader responsible for working to improve antibiotic use.
  4. Action: Implementing at least one recommended action, such as systemic evaluation of ongoing treatment needs after a set period of initial treatment. For example, have an “antibiotic time out” after 48 hours.
  5. Tracking: Monitoring antibiotic prescribing and resistance patterns.
  6. Reporting: Regular reporting information on antibiotic use and resistance to doctors, nurses, and relevant staff.
  7. Education: Educating clinicians about resistance and optimal prescribing.