Antimicrobial Prescribing Policy

Introduction

The need for prudent, rational antimicrobial prescribing, prescribing education and surveillance has been increasingly promoted in recent years.

In 2011 the Department of Health advisory committee on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection (ARHAI)) published “ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP: “START SMART – THEN FOCUS”, Guidance for antimicrobial stewardship in hospitals (England)”. The aim of this document is to provide an outline of evidence-based antimicrobial stewardship in the secondary healthcare setting. Following this guidance will help organisations to demonstrate compliance with Criterion 3 of The Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance.

In 2013 the Department of Health launched the UK Five Year Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy. It describes 3 key strategic aims which are underpinned by antimicrobial stewardship.

1. Improve the knowledge and understanding of AMR.
2. Conserve and steward the effectiveness of existing treatments.
3. Stimulate the development of new antibiotics, diagnostics and novel therapies.

Antimicrobial action plans are in place to support the aims of these government initiatives.

An overarching Antimicrobial Prescribing Policy should be in place in order to provide a framework for the Trust to apply its strategies and work towards complying with the government publications and the Health and Social Care act.

Policy Details

See also:

• Allergy Documentation Policy
• Medicines Management Policy
• Empirical Antimicrobial Guidelines