'California is the only state with formal state-wide legislation that supports antimicrobial stewardship.'

A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.

Abstract

The challenge for governments and the health development community...about the comparative effect of health risks...'

Main

Morrill HJ, LaPlante KL. Lancet Infect Dis 2015; 26: 377–378

It has been reported (Lancet Infect Dis 2014; 14: 742–750), that there has been a 36% increase in the use of antibiotics worldwide. Over three quarters are used in BRICS (five major emerging national economies namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). Irrespective of the healthcare setting, 50% of antimicrobials are used inappropriately. This particularly applies to animal husbandry (see an accompanying letter published in this edition of that journal). In a recent NICE Guideline (Antimicrobial stewardship: systems and processes for effective antimicrobial medicine use – nice.org.uk/guidance/ng15), prescribers should demonstrate 'via continuing professional development (CPD)/revalidation that they are following the principles of antimicrobial stewardship'. Are there parallels with other legislations? In May 2011, the Rhode Island Antimicrobial Stewardship Task Force adopted the following approach including monthly leader-facilitated meetings examining treatment pathways, guidelines, policies underpinned by educational material and the sharing of ideas and experiences.