Is the "low-hanging fruit" worth picking for antimicrobial stewardship programs?

To reveal the unseen low-hanging fruit: A multi-method study of Indonesian hospital pharmacist perception regarding the implementation of injection-to-oral conversion activity

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have demonstrated that the adoption of injection-to-oral conversion strategies in hospitalised patient yields both clinical and economic benefits. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the current state of implementation and evaluate the perspectives of hospital pharmacists to guide future initiatives towards conversion implementation in Indonesia.

METHODS

A multi-method design was utilised. Quantitative approach used cross-sectional study design in which data were collected online using Google Form from August to October 2021. Qualitative analysis employed a phenomenological approach by performing in-depth interviews from July to August 2021. Each approach's data were compared to discover connections and discrepancies, and the final interpretation was done simultaneously.

RESULTS

A total of 204 pharmacists participated in the survey, with 64.2% of them reporting no previous experience in conversion. An in-depth interview included seven hospital pharmacists, with three themes were emerged: (1) strategic roles of the pharmacist; (2) key considerations; and (3) potential barriers and enablers of conversion implementation. Based on the elaboration of quantitative and qualitative data, the study found that pharmacist had strong perception regarding pharmacist role in conversion despite their little experience in implementing the activity. For future improvement, a platform that taking into account the pharmacist current conditions and insights should be created.

CONCLUSIONS

Pharmacists appreciated conversion activity and grasped its concepts despite little clinical experience. Consider possible enabling and barrier factors and essential considerations before taking action. Local guidelines and instructional materials that emphasise application or implementation are encouraged. Furthermore, the implementation project must be piloted and evaluated for clinical and economic outcomes.

Optimizing drug therapy for older adults: shifting away from problematic polypharmacy

INTRODUCTION

The accelerated discovery and production of pharmaceutical products has resulted in many positive outcomes. However, this progress has also contributed to problematic polypharmacy, one of the rapidly growing threats to public health in this century. Problematic polypharmacy results in adverse patient outcomes and imposes increased strain and financial burden on healthcare systems.

AREAS COVERED

A review was conducted on the current body of evidence concerning factors contributing to and consequences of problematic polypharmacy. Recent trials investigating interventions that target polypharmacy and emerging solutions, including incorporation of artificial intelligence, are also examined in this article.

EXPERT OPINION

To shift away from problematic polypharmacy, a multifaceted interdisciplinary approach is necessary. Any potentially successful strategy must be adapted to suit various healthcare settings and must utilize all available resources, including artificial intelligence.

Development of machine learning algorithms for scaling-up antibiotic stewardship

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic stewardship programs (ASP) aim to reduce inappropriate use of antibiotics, but their labor-intensive nature impedes their wide adoption. The present study introduces explainable machine learning (ML) models designed to prioritize inpatients who would benefit most from stewardship interventions.

METHODS

A cohort of inpatients who received systemic antibiotics and were monitored by a multidisciplinary ASP team at a tertiary hospital in the Republic of Korea was assembled. Data encompassing over 130,000 patient-days and comprising more than 160 features from multiple domains, including prescription records, laboratory, microbiology results, and patient conditions was collected.Outcome labels were generated using medication administration history: discontinuation, switching from intravenous to oral medication (IV to PO), and early or late de-escalation. The models were trained using Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) and light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM), with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis used to explain the model's predictions.

RESULTS

The models demonstrated strong discrimination when evaluated on a hold-out test set(AUROC - IV to PO: 0.81, Early de-escalation: 0.78, Late de-escalation: 0.72, Discontinue: 0.80). The models identified 41%, 16%, 22%, and 17% more cases requiring discontinuation, IV to PO, early and late de-escalation, respectively, compared to the conventional length of therapy strategy, given that the same number of patients were reviewed by the ASP team. The SHAP results explain how each model makes their predictions, highlighting a unique set of important features that are well-aligned with the clinical intuitions of the ASP team.

CONCLUSIONS

The models are expected to improve the efficiency of ASP activities by prioritizing cases that would benefit from different types of ASP interventions along with detailed explanations.

Criteria to achieve safe antimicrobial intravenous-to-oral switch in hospitalised adult populations: a systematic rapid review

OBJECTIVES

This rapid review aimed to assess and collate intravenous-to-oral switch (IVOS) criteria from the literature to achieve safe and effective antimicrobial IVOS in the hospital inpatient adult population.

DESIGN

The rapid review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

DATA SOURCES

OVID Embase and Medline databases.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Articles of adult populations published globally between 2017 and 2021 were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

An Excel spreadsheet was designed with specific column headings. IVOS criteria from UK hospital IVOS policies informed the framework synthesis.

RESULTS

IVOS criteria from 45/164 (27%) local IVOS policies were categorised into a five-section framework: (1) timing of IV antimicrobial review, (2) clinical signs and symptoms, (3) infection markers, (4) enteral route and (5) infection exclusions. The literature search identified 477 papers, of which 16 were included. The most common timing for review was 48-72 hours from initiation of intravenous antimicrobial (n=5, 30%). Nine studies (56%) stated clinical signs and symptoms must be improving. Temperature was the most frequently mentioned infection marker (n=14, 88%). Endocarditis had the highest mention as an infection exclusion (n=12, 75%). Overall, 33 IVOS criteria were identified to go forward into the Delphi process.

CONCLUSION

Through the rapid review, 33 IVOS criteria were collated and presented within five distinct and comprehensive sections. The literature highlighted the possibility of reviewing IVOS before 48-72 hours and of presenting heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate as a combination early warning score criterion. The criteria identified can serve as a starting point of IVOS criteria review for any institution globally, as no country or region limits were applied. Further research is required to achieve consensus on IVOS criteria from healthcare professionals that manage patients with infections.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022320343.

Polypharmacy stewardship: a novel approach to tackle a major public health crisis

With growing global concern regarding medication-related harm, WHO launched a global patient safety challenge, Medication Without Harm, in March, 2017. Multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and fragmented health care (ie, patients attending appointments with multiple physicians in various health-care settings) are key drivers of medication-related harm, which can result in negative functional outcomes, high rates of hospitalisation, and excess morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with frailty older than 75 years. Some studies have examined the effect of medication stewardship interventions in older patient cohorts, but focused on a narrow spectrum of potentially adverse medication practices, with mixed results. In response to the WHO challenge, we propose the novel concept of broad-spectrum polypharmacy stewardship, a coordinated intervention designed to improve the management of multimorbidities, taking into account potentially inappropriate medications, potential prescribing omissions, drug-drug and drug-disease interactions, and prescribing cascades, aligning treatment regimens with the condition, prognosis, and preferences of the individual patient. Although the safety and efficacy of polypharmacy stewardship need to be tested with well designed clinical trials, we propose that this approach could minimise medication-related harm in older people with multimorbidities exposed to polypharmacy.

Evaluation of Oral Tebipenem as a Step-Down Therapy following Intravenous Ertapenem against Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli in a Hollow-Fiber In Vitro Infection Model

Tebipenem is an orally bioavailable carbapenem in development for the treatment of patients with complicated urinary tract infections. Herein, we describe the results of studies designed to evaluate tebipenem's potential as an oral (p.o.) transition therapy from intravenous (i.v.) ertapenem therapy for the most common uropathogen, Escherichia coli. These studies utilized a 7-day hollow-fiber in vitro infection model and 5 extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing E. coli challenge isolates. Human free-drug serum concentration-time profiles for tebipenem 600 mg p.o. every 8 h and ertapenem 1 g i.v. every 24 h were simulated in the hollow-fiber in vitro infection model. Samples were collected for bacterial density and drug concentration determination over the 7-day study period. Generally, ertapenem monotherapy resulted in a greater reduction in bacterial density than did tebipenem monotherapy. In the treatment arms in which ertapenem dosing was stopped following dosing for 1 or 3 days, immediate bacterial regrowth occurred and matched that of the growth control. Finally, in the treatment arms in which ertapenem dosing was stopped following dosing for 1 or 3 days and tebipenem dosing was initiated for the remainder of the 7-day study, the intravenous-to-oral transition regimen reduced bacterial burdens and prevented regrowth. Given that transition from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy has been shown to reduce hospital length of stay, nosocomial infection risk, and cost, and improve patient satisfaction, these data demonstrate tebipenem's potential role as an oral transition agent from intravenous antibiotic regimens within the antibiotic stewardship paradigm.

Development of National Antimicrobial Intravenous-to-Oral Switch Criteria and Decision Aid

Introduction: Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) strategies, such as intravenous-to-oral switch (IVOS), promote optimal antimicrobial use, contributing to safer and more effective patient care and tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Aim: This study aimed to achieve nationwide multidisciplinary expert consensus on antimicrobial IVOS criteria for timely switch in hospitalised adult patients and to design an IVOS decision aid to operationalise agreed IVOS criteria in the hospital setting. Method: A four-step Delphi process was chosen to achieve expert consensus on IVOS criteria and decision aid; it included (Step One) Pilot/1st round questionnaire, (Step Two) Virtual meeting, (Step Three) 2nd round questionnaire and (Step 4) Workshop. This study follows the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument checklist. Results: The Step One questionnaire of 42 IVOS criteria had 24 respondents, 15 of whom participated in Step Two, in which 37 criteria were accepted for the next step. Step Three had 242 respondents (England n = 195, Northern Ireland n = 18, Scotland n = 18, Wales n = 11); 27 criteria were accepted. Step Four had 48 survey respondents and 33 workshop participants; consensus was achieved for 24 criteria and comments were received on a proposed IVOS decision aid. Research recommendations include the use of evidence-based standardised IVOS criteria. Discussion and Conclusion: This study achieved nationwide expert consensus on antimicrobial IVOS criteria for timely switch in the hospitalised adult population. For criteria operationalisation, an IVOS decision aid was developed. Further research is required to provide clinical validation of the consensus IVOS criteria and to expand this work into the paediatric and international settings.

Evaluation of an Antifungal Stewardship Initiative Targeting Micafungin at an Academic Medical Center

Delays in the treatment of proven invasive fungal disease have been shown to be harmful. However, empiric treatment for all patients at risk of infection has not demonstrated benefit. This study evaluates the effects of a micafungin stewardship initiative on the duration of therapy and clinical outcomes at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. This single-center quasi-experiment evaluated patients who received micafungin. Adult inpatients who received at least one treatment dose of micafungin in the pre-intervention (1 October 2020 to 30 September 2021) or post-intervention (1 October 2021 to 30 April 2022) groups were included. Patients were placed on micafungin for prophylaxis and those who required definitive micafungin therapy were excluded. An algorithm was used to provide real-time recommendations in order to assess change in the treatment days of micafungin therapy. A total of 282 patients were included (141 pre-group versus 141 post-group). Over 80% of the patients included in the study were in an intensive care unit, and other baseline characteristics were similar. The median number of treatment days with micafungin was 4 [IQR 3-6] in the pre-group and 3 [IQR 2-6] in the post-group (p = 0.005). Other endpoints, such as time to discontinuation or de-escalation, hospital mortality, and hospital length of stay, were not significantly different between the groups. An antifungal stewardship initiative can be an effective way to decrease unnecessary empiric antifungal therapy for patients who are at risk of invasive fugal disease.

Hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship, India

Objective

To establish a framework for implementing antimicrobial stewardship in Indian tertiary care hospitals, and identify challenges and enablers for implementation.

Methods

Over 2018-2021 the Indian Council of Medical Research followed a systematic approach to establish a framework for implementation of antimicrobial stewardship in Indian hospitals. We selected 20 Indian tertiary care hospitals to study the feasibility of implementing a stewardship programme. Based on a questionnaire to lead physicians before and after the intervention, we assessed progress using a set of process and outcome indicators. In a qualitative survey we identified enablers and barriers to implementation of antimicrobial stewardship.

Findings

We found an improvement in various antimicrobial stewardship implementation indicators in the hospitals after the intervention. All 20 hospitals conducted monthly point prevalence analysis of cultures compared with three hospitals before the intervention. The number of hospitals that initiated formulary restrictions increased from two to 12 hospitals and the number of hospitals that started practising prescription audit and feedback increased from six to 16 hospitals. Respondents in 15 hospitals expressed their willingness to expand the coverage of antimicrobial stewardship implementation to other wards and intensive care units. Six hospitals were willing to recruit the permanent staff needed for antimicrobial stewardship activities.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial stewardship can be implemented in Indian tertiary hospitals with reasonable success, subject to institutional support, availability of trained manpower and willingness of hospitals to support antimicrobial stewardship-related educational and training activities.

Harvesting the low-hanging fruit? Comparative assessment of intravenous to oral route antimicrobial conversion policy implementation

Policies that promote conversion of antibiotics from intravenous to oral route administration are considered “low hanging fruit” for hospital antimicrobial stewardship programs. We developed a simple metric based on digestive days of therapy divided by total days of therapy for targeted agents and a method for hospital comparisons. External comparisons may help identify opportunities for improving prospective implementation.

From basic to advanced computerised intravenous to oral switch for paracetamol and antibiotics: an interrupted time series analysis

OBJECTIVES

Early switch from intravenous to oral therapy of bioequivalent drugs has major advantages but remains challenging. At our hospital, a basic clinical rule was designed to automatically alert the physician to review potential intravenous to oral switch (IVOS). A rather low acceptance rate was observed. In this study, we aimed to develop, validate and investigate the effect of more advanced clinical rules for IVOS, as part of a centralised pharmacist-led medication review service.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A quasi-experimental study was performed in a large teaching hospital in Belgium using an interrupted time series design.

INTERVENTION

A definite set of 13 criteria for IVOS, focusing on the ability of oral absorption and type of infection, was obtained by literature search and validated by a multidisciplinary expert panel. Based on these criteria, we developed a clinical rule for paracetamol and one for ten bioequivalent antibiotics to identify patients with potentially inappropriate intravenous prescriptions (PIVs). Postintervention, the clinical rule alerts were reviewed by pharmacists, who provided recommendations to switch in case of eligibility.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

A regression model was used to assess the impact of the intervention on the number of persistent PIVs between the preintervention and the postintervention period. The total number of recommendations, acceptance rate and financial impact were recorded for the 8-month postintervention period.

RESULTS

At baseline, a median number of 11 (range: 7-16) persistent PIVs per day was observed. After the intervention, the number reduced to 3 (range: 1-7) per day. The advanced IVOS clinical rules showed an immediate relative reduction of 79% (incidence rate ratio=0.21, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.32; p<0.01) in the proportion of persistent PIVs. No significant underlying time trends were observed during the study. Postintervention, 1091 recommendations were provided, of which 74.1% were accepted, resulting in a total 1-day cost saving of €4648.35.

CONCLUSIONS

We showed the efficacy of advanced clinical rules combined with a pharmacist-led medication review for IVOS of bioequivalent drugs.

Clinical outcomes of intervention for carbapenems and anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus antibiotics by an antimicrobial stewardship team

BACKGROUND

There are no reports on the effects of interventions, such as discontinuation and change and/or de-escalation of carbapenems and anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) antibiotics by an antimicrobial stewardship team focusing on detailed patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate these effects.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from December 2018 to November 2019.

RESULTS

Favorable clinical responses were obtained in 165 of 184 cases (89.7%) in the intervention-accepted group, higher than those in the not accepted group (14/19 cases, 73.7%; P = .056). All-cause 30 day mortality was lower in the accepted group than in the not accepted group (1.1% and 10.5%, respectively; P = .045). The microbiological outcomes were similar between the two groups. Duration of carbapenem and anti-MRSA antibiotic use in the accepted group was significantly lower than that in the not accepted group (median [interquartile range]: 8 days [5-13] versus 14 days [8-15], respectively, P = .026 for carbapenem; 10 days [5.3-15] vs 15.5 days [13.8-45.3], respectively, P = .014 for anti-MRSA antibiotic).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to investigate the effects of interventions such as discontinuation and change and/ or de-escalation of antibiotics on detailed outcomes. Our intervention could reduce the duration of carbapenem and anti-MRSA antibiotic use without worsening clinical and microbiological outcomes.

Duration of Antibiotic Therapy for General Medicine and General Surgery Patients Throughout Transitions of Care: An Antibiotic Stewardship Opportunity for Noninfectious Disease Pharmacists

Background

Overuse of antibiotics from the inpatient to outpatient setting is an antibiotic stewardship initiative where noninfectious disease (ID) pharmacists can have a large impact. Our purpose was to evaluate antibiotic durations across transitions of care from the inpatient to outpatient setting.

Methods

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort analysis evaluating antibiotic durations from the inpatient and outpatient setting in adult patients admitted to general surgery and medicine services at an academic medical center between January 1, 2017 and September 20, 2017. The primary outcome was to assess total antibiotic duration for patients with uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections (UTI, cUTI), community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). Outpatient electronic discharge prescriptions were used to calculate intended antibiotic duration upon transitions of care. Excessive duration of therapy was defined as >3 days-UTI, >5 days-CAP, and >7 days-cUTI or HAP.

Results

One hundred and one patients met inclusion criteria. Overall, most of the patients (81%) had antibiotics longer than recommended with only 3% receiving less than the recommended duration. Median total duration of therapy compared with recommended duration specified in national guidelines was UTI: 10 days [7 -10], cUTI: 12 days [7.5-12.5], CAP: 7 days [7 -9], HAP: 10 days [8 -12]. The median antibiotic duration was shorter in patients with no cultures or culture negative results compared with patients with positive cultures for all indications (UTI: 10.3 vs 10.8 days, cUTI: 9 vs 12 days, CAP: 8 vs 9.1 days, HAP: 10.5 vs 19.8 days). Overall, the recommended duration of antibiotics was completed while inpatient in 34.7%, but varied by infection. More patients with UTI or cUTI completed recommended duration of therapy while inpatient vs for CAP or HAP (53.8% vs 28%, P = .03). Eighty percent of those with UTI, 18.2% with cUTI, 25.6% with CAP, and 31.2% with HAP had already received the recommended duration of treatment, or more, on day of hospital discharge.

Conclusions

The median duration of antibiotic therapy for all indications evaluated was longer than recommended in national guidelines. Opportunities for stewardship by non-ID pharmacists to impact postdischarge antimicrobial use at transitions of care have been identified.

Evidence for the Application of Sepsis Bundles in 2021

Sepsis represents a severe condition that predisposes patients to a high risk of death if its progression is not ended. As with other time-dependent conditions, the performance of determinant interventions has led to significant survival benefits and quality-of-care improvements in acute emergency care. Thus, the initial interventions in sepsis are a cornerstone for prognosis in most patients. Even though the evidence supporting the hour-1 bundle is perfectible, real-life application of thoughtful and organized sepsis care has improved survival and quality of care in settings promoting compliance to evidence-based treatments. Current evidence for implementing the Surviving Sepsis Campaign bundles for early sepsis management is moving forward to better approaches as more substantial evidence evolves.

Reducing Duration of Antibiotic Use for Presumed Neonatal Early-Onset Sepsis in Greek NICUs. A "Low-Hanging Fruit" Approach

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU), where stewardship interventions are challenging. Lowering antibiotic consumption is desperately needed in Greece, a country with high antibiotic resistance rates. We sought to assess the effectiveness of a low-cost and -resource intervention to reduce antibiotic use in Greek NICUs implementing a "low-hanging fruit" approach. A prospective quasi-experimental study was conducted in 15/17 public NICUs in Greece (9/2016-06/2019). The intervention selected was discontinuation of antibiotics within 5 days for neonates with gestational age ≥ 37 weeks, no documented signs or symptoms of sepsis, CRP ≤ 10 mg/L and negative cultures within 3 days of antibiotic initiation. Impact was evaluated by the percentage of discontinued regimens by day 5, length of therapy (LOT) and stay. Trends of antibiotic consumption were assessed with days of therapy (DOT) per 1000 patient-days. Overall, there was a 9% increase (p = 0.003) of antibiotic discontinuation in ≤5 days. In total, 7/13 (53.8%) units showed a ≥10% increase. Overall, 615 days on antibiotics per 1000 patients were saved. Interrupted time-series analysis established a declining trend in DOT/1000 patient-days relative to the pre-intervention trend (p = 0.002); a monthly decrease rate of 28.96 DOT/1000 patient-days (p = 0.001, 95%CI [-45.33, -12.60]). The intervention had no impact on antibiotic choice. Antibiotic use was successfully reduced in Greek NICUs using a "low-hanging fruit" approach. In resource-limited settings, similar targeted stewardship interventions can be applied.

A Survey on National Pediatric Antibiotic Stewardship Programs, Networks and Guidelines in 23 European Countries

BACKGROUND

Misuse, overuse of antimicrobials and increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance are well-recognized problems throughout Europe. The aim of this survey was to describe the current pediatric antibiotic stewardship (PAS) landscape across Europe and identify gaps, in terms of national programs, networks and guidelines.

METHODS

A survey of 17 questions was circulated in July 2019 among 24 European pediatric infectious disease researchers and clinicians, professors and heads of department on the existence of PAS programs, national networks and meetings, established competencies, metrics and guidelines.

RESULTS

We received responses from 23 countries. National guidelines on the management of children with common infections treated in hospital settings exist in 15 of 23 (70%); only 8 of 15 (53%) had been updated within the previous 4 years. Most provide guidance on antibiotic initiation and duration (14 of 15, 93%), but few on when to transition from intravenous to oral antibiotics (7 of 15, 47%). National PAS competencies have only been developed in 4 countries; only 1 addressed both community and hospital prescribing. Organized national PAS networks are only established in the United Kingdom and Germany; 21 of 23, 91% countries had no agreed metric for antibiotic prescribing in children; 2 of 23 were based on daily defined doses.

CONCLUSIONS

Fragmented implementation of PAS programs, no agreed metrics, lack of established PAS competencies and national PAS networks along with inexistent funding is alarming in view of existing high rates of antimicrobial resistance in Europe.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASPs) and their perceived level of success at Makkah region hospitals, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are collaborative efforts to optimize antimicrobial use in healthcare institutions through evidence-based quality improvement strategies. The general administration of pharmaceutical care in the Saudi ministry of health (MOH) is putting outstanding efforts in implementing antimicrobial stewardship in Saudi health care settings. Several surveys have been conducted globally and reported many types of antimicrobial stewardship strategies in health institutions and their effectiveness. This study aims to identify ASPs in Makkah region hospitals and their perceived level of success. We administered a regional survey to explore current progress and issues related to the implementation of ASPs in Makkah region hospitals at the pharmacy level (n = 25). Among responding hospitals, 19 (76%) hospitals, the most commonly reported ASP were as following: formulary restrictions (90%) for broad-spectrum antimicrobials and use of prospective feedback on antimicrobial prescribing (68%), use of clinical guidelines and pathways (100%), and use of automatic stop orders (68%) to limit inappropriate antimicrobial therapy. The study outcomes will also be of pivotal importance to devise policies and strategies for antimicrobial stewardship implementation in other non-MOH settings in the Makkah region. Based on our results, all reported institutions have at least one antimicrobial stewardship program in a process with a high success rate. A multidisciplinary ASP approach, active involvement of drug & therapeutic committee, formulary restrictions, and availability of education & training of pharmacists and physicians on ASP are the primary elements for perceived successful antimicrobial stewardship programs in the Makkah region hospitals.

Antibiotic treatment in patients with sepsis: a narrative review

Sepsis is a medical emergency and life-threatening condition due to a dysregulated host response to infection, with unacceptably high morbidity and mortality. Similar to acute myocardial infarction or cerebral vascular accident, sepsis is a severe and continuous time-dependent condition. Thus, in the case of sepsis, early and adequate administration of antimicrobials must be a priority, ideally within the first hour of diagnosis, simultaneously with organ support.As a consequence of the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens, the choice of antimicrobials should be performed according to the local pathogen patterns of resistance. Individual antimicrobial optimization is essential to achieve adequate concentrations of antimicrobials, to reduce adverse effects, and to ensure successful outcomes, as well as preventing the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. The loading dose is the administration of an initial higher dose of antimicrobials, regardless of the presence of organ dysfunction. Further doses should be implemented according to pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of antimicrobials and should be adjusted according to the presence of renal or liver dysfunction. Extended or continuous infusion of beta-lactams and therapeutic drug monitoring can help to achieve therapeutic levels of antimicrobials. Duration and adequacy of treatment must be reviewed at regular intervals to allow effective de-escalation and administration of short courses of antimicrobials for most patients. Antimicrobial stewardship frameworks, leadership, focus on the optimal duration of treatments, de-escalation, and novel diagnostic stewardship approaches will help us to improve patients the process of care and overall quality of care.

Antimicrobial stewardship: The influence of behavioral nudging on renal-function-based appropriateness of dosing

Failure to adjust doses may contribute to adverse events. We evaluated the effectiveness of providing the estimated glomerular filtration rate on appropriateness of dosing for antimicrobials. The approach increased appropriateness of dosing from 33.9% to 41.4% (P < .001). Nudging prescription behavior can boost strategies for adequate antimicrobial prescription.

The development and implementation of stewardship initiatives to optimize the prevention and treatment of cytomegalovirus infection in solid-organ transplant recipients

Classical stewardship efforts have targeted immunocompetent patients; however, appropriate use of antimicrobials in the immunocompromised host has become a target of interest. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is one of the most common and significant complications after solid-organ transplant (SOT). The treatment of CMV requires a dual approach of antiviral drug therapy and reduction of immunosuppression for optimal outcomes. This dual approach to CMV management increases complexity and requires individualization of therapy to balance antiviral efficacy with the risk of allograft rejection. In this review, we focus on the development and implementation of CMV stewardship initiatives, as a component of antimicrobial stewardship in the immunocompromised host, to optimize the management of prevention and treatment of CMV in SOT recipients. These initiatives have the potential not only to improve judicious use of antivirals and prevent resistance but also to improve patient and graft survival given the interconnection between CMV infection and allograft function.

[Evaluation of Intervention by an Antimicrobial Stewardship Team for Patients with Bacteremia]

In this study, antimicrobial stewardship team (AST) intervention was evaluated by comparing patient outcomes and consumption of broad-spectrum antibiotics [carbapenem antibiotics and tazobactam/piperacillin (TAZ/PIPC)] before and after the intervention. There was no fluctuation in the consumption rate of carbapenem, TAZ/PIPC and other antibiotics, but there was a decreased annual consumption of antibiotics after AST intervention compared to before intervention. For the carbapenems, antimicrobial use density (AUD) of meropenem (MEPM) was highest in both periods, at 20.1 and 20.4 before and after AST intervention, respectively, with no significant change after AST intervention. However, the days of therapy (DOT) for MEPM were 27.4 and 24.8 d, respectively, with a decreasing trend after AST intervention. AUD and DOT for TAZ/PIPC after AST intervention were 6.5 and 8.1 d, respectively, which were lower than the pre-intervention values. Rapid identification of the causative strain enables early de-escalation and may improve the economics of antibiotic use, but there was no difference from before to after AST intervention. Compared with before and after strain identification, the carbapenem administration rate after AST intervention was significantly lower than the pre-intervention rate (p<0.01). There was no difference in 28-day mortality and treatment period before and after AST intervention, and there were no differences in outcomes such as resolution of bacteremia, mortality, exacerbation and no change from before to after AST intervention. Based on these results, we suggest that AST intervention can reduce consumption of antibiotics without altering patient outcomes.

Policy document on antimicrobial stewardship practices in India

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India has become a great threat because of high rate of infectious diseases. One of the key contributing factors is high antibiotic use due to poor prescription practices, self-medication, over-the-counter sale of drugs and lack of awareness. Antimicrobial stewardship programme (AMSP) have been proved to be successful in restraining sale and use of antibiotics to a large extent in many countries. An AMSP programme for a hospital is imperative for rational and evidence-based antimicrobial therapy. The ultimate aim is to improve patient outcomes, reduce emergence of bacterial resistance and ensure longevity of the existing antimicrobials. The primary goal of AMSP is to encourage cautious use of available antibiotics by training the healthcare workers and creating awareness. This article describes the strategies and recommendations for formulation of AMSP policy for India.

Antimicrobial stewardship in South Africa: a scoping review of the published literature

Objectives

To map published data of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions that are currently being carried out in hospitals and clinics in the public and private health sectors of South Africa in line with the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) strategy of South Africa.

Methods

A systematic scoping review was conducted to identify AMS initiatives in the public and private health sectors of South Africa for the period 1 January 2000 to 31 March 2019. An electronic search of databases was made including PubMed, Scopus, a key medical journal (South African Medical Journal), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) WorldCat iCatalogue and AMR networks: Federation of Infectious Diseases Societies in South Africa (FIDSSA). Reference lists of published articles were also reviewed for inclusion. Keywords included ‘antimicrobial antibiotic stewardship South Africa’.

Findings

Of a total of 411 articles, using a stepwise screening process, 18 articles were selected for inclusion in the review. The interventions/initiatives were divided into four broad categories: (i) AMS intervention: prescription audits and usage; (ii) AMS intervention: education and its impact; (iii) other AMS interventions; and (iv) the role of different healthcare professionals in AMS.

Conclusions

The data identifies a need for and the value of AMS in both the public and private health sectors of South Africa. Initiatives are carried out across both sectors but more attention needs to be focused on AMS implementation in line with the National AMR Strategy of South Africa. Collaboration between the different sectors will aid in overcoming the AMR challenge.

Implementation of a Clinical Decision Support Tool to Improve Antibiotic IV-to-Oral Conversion Rates at a Community Academic Hospital

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic IV-to-oral (IV-PO) conversion is a key initiative of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Guidelines and education are commonly described interventions to promote IV-PO conversion; however, technological interventions may be more effective in changing practice.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of a clinical decision support (CDS) tool on the adoption and sustainability of an antibiotic IV-PO conversion program at a community academic hospital.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental study consisting of 3 phases was conducted. During phase 1, the pre-intervention antibiotic IV-PO conversion rate was determined. During phase 2, the IV-PO conversion policy was updated, education was provided to pharmacists and physicians, and a post-intervention evaluation was conducted. During phase 3, a CDS tool was developed to generate real-time electronic alerts prompting pharmacists to assess antibiotic therapy, and post-intervention audits were performed 1 month, 3 months, and 15 months after implementation of the tool. Pantoprazole IV-PO conversion was assessed during each phase as a non-equivalent dependent variable. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients eligible for IV-PO conversion who were switched to oral therapy.

RESULTS

Of 332 patients receiving targeted IV antibiotic therapy during the overall study period, 122 (37%) met the criteria for IV-PO conversion. The phase 2 IV-PO conversion rate of 35% (9/26) was comparable to the pre-intervention rate of 29% (10/35) (p = 0.61). Implementation of the CDS tool significantly increased the conversion rate to 78% (14/18), an increase that was sustained at 3 months (71% [17/24]) and 15 months (74% [14/19]) after implementation (p < 0.05 for all comparisons with phases 1 and 2). Pantoprazole conversion rates were similar across all phases.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the CDS tool was effective in improving and sustaining antibiotic IV-PO conversion rates and enhancing policy compliance beyond the effects of policy revision and education. Refinement of both the policy and the tool is warranted to maximize adoption of the IV-PO conversion program.

A clinical decision support system algorithm for intravenous to oral antibiotic switch therapy: validity, clinical relevance and usefulness in a three-step evaluation study

Objectives

To evaluate a clinical decision support system (CDSS) based on consensus-based intravenous to oral switch criteria, which identifies intravenous to oral switch candidates.

Methods

A three-step evaluation study of a stand-alone CDSS with electronic health record interoperability was performed at the Erasmus University Medical Centre in the Netherlands. During the first step, we performed a technical validation. During the second step, we determined the sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and positive predictive value in a retrospective cohort of all hospitalized adult patients starting at least one therapeutic antibacterial drug between 1 and 16 May 2013. ICU, paediatric and psychiatric wards were excluded. During the last step the clinical relevance and usefulness was prospectively assessed by reports to infectious disease specialists. An alert was considered clinically relevant if antibiotics could be discontinued or switched to oral therapy at the time of the alert.

Results

During the first step, one technical error was found. The second step yielded a positive predictive value of 76.6% and a negative predictive value of 99.1%. The third step showed that alerts were clinically relevant in 53.5% of patients. For 43.4% it had already been decided to discontinue or switch the intravenous antibiotics by the treating physician. In 10.1%, the alert resulted in advice to change antibiotic policy and was considered useful.

Conclusions

This prospective cohort study shows that the alerts were clinically relevant in >50% (n = 449) and useful in 10% (n = 85). The CDSS needs to be evaluated in hospitals with varying activity of infectious disease consultancy services as this probably influences usefulness.

Metrics of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs

Appropriate metrics are needed to measure the quality, clinical, and financial impacts of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Metrics are typically categorized into antibiotic use measures, process measures, quality measures, costs, and clinical outcome measures. Traditionally, antimicrobial stewardship metrics have focused on antibiotic use, antibiotic costs, and process measures. With health care reform, practice should shift to focusing on clinical impact of stewardship programs over financial impact. This article reviews the various antimicrobial stewardship metrics that have been described in the literature, evidence to support these metrics, controversies surrounding metrics, and areas in which future research is necessary.

Role of Technology in Antimicrobial Stewardship

Because of the increasing plague of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic misuse, antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are now a mandatory entity in all US hospitals. ASPs can use technological advances, such as the electronic medical record and clinical decision support systems, to impact a larger patient population with more efficiency. Additionally, through the use of mobile applications and social media, ASPs can highlight and propagate educational information regarding antimicrobial utilization to patients and providers in a widespread and timely manner. In this article, the authors describe how technology can play an important role in antimicrobial stewardship.

The Pharmacoeconomic Aspects of Antibiotic Stewardship Programs

Optimal antimicrobial therapy must take into account the key factors in antibiotic selection, that is, spectrum, tissue penetration, resistance potential, safety profile, and relative cost-effectiveness. The least expensive drug is usually accompanied by other concerns, such as high resistance potential, poor side effect profile, pharmacokinetic properties that limit penetration into target tissue (site of infection), and/or suboptimal activity against the presumed/known pathogen. It is false economy to preferentially select the least expensive antibiotics solely because of its acquisition cost. Therapeutic failure and hidden costs may make an apparently less expensive antibiotic most costly in the end.

Anti-infective Acquisition Costs for a Stewardship Program: Getting to the Bottom Line

Background

Though antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are in place for patient safety, financial justification is often required. In 2016, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) recommended that anti-infective costs be measured by patient-level administration data normalized for patient census. Few publications use this methodology. Here, we aim to compare 3 methods of drug cost analysis during 3 phases of an ASP as an example of this recommendation's implementation.

Methods

At a freestanding pediatric hospital, we retrospectively assessed anti-infective cost using pharmacy purchasing data, patient-level administration data from the electronic medical record (EMR), and patient-level administration data from the Pediatric Hospital Information Systems (PHIS) database, all normalized to patient census. Costs pre-ASP, while planning the ASP, and post-ASP were then compared for each method.

Results

Significant differences in costs between the methods were observed. Pharmacy purchasing endorsed minimal financial benefit (decrease planning to post-ASP of $590 dollars per 1000 patient-days), while the EMR and PHIS data endorsed a decrease of $12785 and $21380 per 1000 patient-days, respectively, for a total yearly cost savings of $54656 for pharmacy purchasing data, $1184336 for EMR data, and $2117522 for PHIS data.

Conclusions

Pharmacy purchasing data underestimated cost savings compared with EMR and PHIS data, while EMR and PHIS data were comparable in magnitude of savings. At Children's Hospital Colorado, savings justified the full cost of the ASP. EMR patient-level administration data, normalized to patient census, offers a readily available and standardized measure of anti-infective costs over time.

The Hospital Antimicrobial Use Process: From Beginning to End

Hospital antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are responsible for ensuring that all antimicrobials are utilized in the most appropriate and safe manner to improve patient outcomes, prevent adverse drug reactions, and prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance. This Perspectives article outlines the hospital antimicrobial use process (AUP), the foundational system that ensures that all antimicrobials are utilized in the most appropriate and safe manner. The AUP consists of the following steps: antimicrobial ordering, order verification, preparation and delivery, administration, monitoring, and discharge prescribing. AMS programs should determine how each step contributes to how an antimicrobial is used appropriately or inappropriately at their institution. Through this understanding, AMS programs can integrate stewardship activities at each step to ensure that every opportunity is taken to optimize antimicrobial use during a patient's treatment course. Hence, approaching AMS through the framework of a hospital's AUP is essential to improving appropriate antimicrobial use.

Mobile health application to assist doctors in antibiotic prescription – an approach for antibiotic stewardship

Background

Technologies applied to mobile devices can be an important strategy in antibiotic stewardship programs.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a decision-making application on antibiotic prescription.

Methods

This was an observational, analytical and longitudinal study on the implementation of an antimicrobial guide for mobile application. This study analyzed the period of 12 months before and 12 months after the app implementation at a university hospital based on local epidemiology, avoiding high cost drugs and reducing the potential for drug resistance including carbapenem. Antimicrobials consumption was evaluated in Daily Defined Dose/1000 patients-day and direct expenses converted into USD.

Results

The monthly average consumption of aminoglycosides and cefepime had a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05), while the consumption of piperacillin/tazobactam and meropenem was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The sensitivity to meropenem as well as to polymyxin increased after the app implementation. A decrease in sensitivity to cefepime was observed after introduction of this antibiotic as a substitute of piperacillin/tazobactam for treating intra-hospital infections.

There was a net saving of USD 296,485.90 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

An antibiotic protocol in the app can help antibiotic stewardship reducing cost, changing the microbiological profile and antimicrobial consumption.

Antibiotic stewardship in low- and middle-income countries: the same but different?

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a quickly worsening problem worldwide, also in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Appropriate antibiotic use in humans and animals, i.e. antibiotic stewardship (ABS), is one of the cornerstones of the World Health Organization's global action plan for ABR. Many LMICs are in the process of developing stewardship programs.

AIMS

We highlight challenges for ABS initiatives in LMICs, give an outline of (inter)national recommendations and demonstrate examples of effective, contextualized stewardship interventions.

SOURCES

We searched PubMed for articles on ABS interventions in humans in LMICs. Relevant websites and experts were consulted for additional sources.

CONTENT

Evidence on effective and feasible stewardship interventions in LMICs is limited, and challenges for implementation of interventions are numerous. Nevertheless, several initiatives at the international and local levels in Latin America, Africa and Asia have shown that ABS effective interventions are feasible in LMICs, although contextualization is essential.

IMPLICATIONS

Specific guidance for setting up antimicrobial stewardship programs in LMICs should be developed. Strategic points might need to be progressively addressed in LMICs, such as (a) ensuring availability of diagnostic testing, (b) providing dedicated education in ABR both for healthcare workers and the general public, (c) creating or strengthening (inter)national agencies towards better regulations and audit on production, distribution and dispensing of drugs, (d) strengthening healthcare facilities, (e) exploring a broader synergism between policy makers, academia, professional bodies and civil society and (f) designing and studying easy and scalable ABS interventions for both hospital and community settings.

International Mentoring Programs: Leadership Opportunities to Enhance Worldwide Pharmacy Practice

Health-system and community pharmacy practice in the United States is experiencing transformational change; however, this transformation is lagging in the international arena. As a result, efforts are being made to provide support and education to the international pharmacy leaders and practitioners. This article describes one effort, the Mandela Washington Fellows Program, and suggests areas where pharmacy leaders can be involved to help advance the practice of pharmacy on an international level. The Mandela Washington Fellows Program for young Africa leaders consists of a US-Africa pharmacy-mentoring program identified ranging from educational opportunities to collaboration for implementation of patient care programs. The specifics of the mentoring program include daily meetings, clinic and ward rounds, round table discussions with mentors, and visits to various hospital care systems. Lessons were learned and strategies for sustaining the program are discussed. These types of programs represent leadership opportunities that may not be apparent to most pharmacy directors, but expanding their view to helping international pharmacists expand their practice only strengthens the professional goal of providing patient-centered pharmacy services.

Eight Habits of Highly Effective Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs to Meet the Joint Commission Standards for Hospitals

In an effort to decrease antimicrobial resistance and inappropriate antibiotic use, The Joint Commission (TJC) recently issued new antimicrobial stewardship standards, consisting of 8 elements of performance, applicable to hospitals effective January 1, 2017. These standards coincide with those recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Society of Healthcare Epidemiology (SHEA) guidelines. Little guidance exists on the "how" from these guidance documents. We review the 8 standards and provide real-world experience from established antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) on how institutions can comply with these guidelines to reduce inappropriate antibiotic usage, decrease antimicrobial resistance, and optimize patient outcomes. TJC antimicrobial stewardship standards demonstrate actions being taken at the national level to make quality and patient safety a priority.

Development of operationalized intravenous to oral antibiotic switch criteria

OBJECTIVES

Despite huge overlap in suggested criteria for a safe intravenous (iv)-to-oral antibiotic switch, there is considerable variation in their operationalization. The objective of this study was to develop a set of measurable conditions that should be met in adult hospitalized patients for a safe iv-to-oral switch.

METHODS

A RAND-modified Delphi procedure was performed to develop a set of operationalized iv-to-oral switch criteria. Switch criteria and their accompanying suggested measurable conditions were extracted from the literature and appraised by a multidisciplinary expert panel during two questionnaire rounds with a face-to-face meeting between these two rounds. In a final step, the experts could approve the set of developed operationalized switch criteria.

RESULTS

Seven switch criteria and 41 accompanying measurable conditions extracted from the literature were appraised. Sixteen measurable conditions that operationalize six switch criteria were selected: (i) stable systolic blood pressure; and the absence of (ii) fever, (iii) temperature <36°C, (iv) malabsorption syndrome, (v) short bowel syndrome, (vi) severe gastroparesis, (vii) ileus, (viii) continuous nasogastric suction, (ix) vomiting, (x) (severe) sepsis, (xi) fasciitis necroticans, (xii) CNS infection, (xiii) Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia, and (xiv) endovascular infection. In addition, (xv) the patient should be cooperative and (xvi) adequate antimicrobial concentration should be achievable at the site of infection by oral administration.

CONCLUSIONS

These operationalized criteria can be used in daily clinical practice. Future use of these criteria in audits and as rules in clinical decision support systems will facilitate the performance and evaluation of iv-oral switch programmes.

A Survey of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Korea, 2015

The study was conducted to evaluate the Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ASP) in Korean hospitals compared with the previous two surveys in 2006 and 2012. The information on ASPs was collected through an online-based survey sent by e-mail to 192 infectious diseases specialists in 101 Korean hospitals in September 2015. Fifty-four hospitals (53.5%, 54/101) responded to the online survey. One infectious diseases specialist was employed in 30 (55.6%) of the 54 hospitals, and they were in charge of ASPs in hospitals with the program. Fifty of the 54 hospitals (92.6%) had ASPs and the same number of hospitals was conducting a preauthorization-of-antibiotics-use program. Although most hospitals adopted preauthorization strategies for more antibiotics in 2015 than in 2012 (median 14 in 2015; 13 in 2012), a limited number of antibiotics were under control. The number of per oral and parenteral antibiotics available in hospitals in 2015 decreased compared to 2006 and 2012. The number of hospitals performing a retrospective or prospective qualitative drug use evaluation of antibiotic use increased from 2006 to 2015. Manpower in charge of antibiotic stewardship in most hospitals was still very limited and ASPs heavily depended on preauthorization-of-antibiotics-use programs in this survey. In conclusion, there leaves much to be desired in ASPs in Korea in 2015.

Implementing an Antibiotic Stewardship Program: Guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America

Evidence-based guidelines for implementation and measurement of antibiotic stewardship interventions in inpatient populations including long-term care were prepared by a multidisciplinary expert panel of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America. The panel included clinicians and investigators representing internal medicine, emergency medicine, microbiology, critical care, surgery, epidemiology, pharmacy, and adult and pediatric infectious diseases specialties. These recommendations address the best approaches for antibiotic stewardship programs to influence the optimal use of antibiotics.

Race Against Antimicrobial Resistance Requires Coordinated Action - An Overview

Resistance developed by microbes is challenging success stories of treatment of infectious diseases with anti-microbials. Developing new antimicrobials against these resistant organisms does not progress at the same speed. In an effort to address this key issue, this work overviews the role of different stakeholders and discusses preventative and control measures for effective management of available resources. Roles and concerns of physicians, pharmacists and the public are also discussed. More than anything, this situation requires immediate action to establish antimicrobial stewardship program, control over the counter sale and promote public awareness. The paper also confronts the idea of curbing the use of antimicrobials using mass media, while detailing the consequences of non-therapeutic use. The role of policy makers in taking global action is essential to establishing authority or agency for formulating national guidelines and regulations for prudently using antimicrobials. To do this, this paper recommend the establishment of a global fund. In conclusion, the race against resistance is a collective responsibility requiring coordinated action at local, national, regional and international levels to ensure sustained utilization of antimicrobials.