Antibiotics revolutionized modern medicine, transforming the treatment of bacterial infections and saving countless lives. However, their misuse and overuse have led to a rise in antibiotic resistance, rendering once-effective drugs ineffective. In this Chronicle, we delve into the concept of antibiotic stewardship and why it is crucial for preserving the efficacy of these essential medications.

Antibiotic stewardship refers to a coordinated effort to optimize the use of antibiotics in healthcare settings. It involves a set of strategies and practices aimed at promoting appropriate prescribing, minimizing unnecessary use, and combating antibiotic resistance. The goal of antibiotic stewardship programs is to ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously, preserving their effectiveness for future generations.

Why is Antibiotic Stewardship Important?

1. Preserving Antibiotic Effectiveness: Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and become resistant to the drugs intended to kill them. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics accelerate this process. By implementing stewardship initiatives, we can slow down the development of resistance, extending the useful lifespan of existing antibiotics and enabling them to remain effective when they are truly needed.
2. Reducing Adverse Effects: Antibiotics are not without risks. They can cause adverse drug reactions, ranging from mild allergic reactions to severe complications like Clostridium difficile infection. By employing antibiotic stewardship measures, healthcare professionals can minimize unnecessary antibiotic exposure, thereby reducing the potential harm caused by these drugs.
3. Promoting Patient Safety: Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to patient harm. For instance, prescribing antibiotics for viral infections not only fails to provide any benefit but can also create unnecessary side effects. With effective stewardship, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment while avoiding unnecessary exposure to antibiotics.
4. Controlling Healthcare Costs: Overuse of antibiotics contributes to rising healthcare costs. Unnecessary prescriptions drive up expenses for both patients and healthcare systems. Implementing stewardship programs can help optimize antibiotic use, reducing costs associated with unnecessary prescriptions, drug-resistant infections, and extended hospital stays.

Listen in to Grand River Health physicians Dr. Feeney and CMO, Dr. Kevin Coleman for a great conversation about our Antibiotic Stewardship Program, Evidence-Based medicine and why it’s so important to our patients and community. Dr. Coleman and Dr. Feeney share their passion for continued education on the topic and the value of partnership between provider and patient.

 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grand-river-health/episodes/Talk-With-A-Doc-Series—Antibiotic-Stewardship-Program-e26kjps