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.