All Aboard the Antimicrobial StewardSHIP

Abstract

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, antibiotic resistance is a leading topic in infectious disease control. As a result, the White House in March 2015 has established the National Action plan for Combating Antibiotic resistant Bacteria; this action plan calls for the establishment of antimicrobial stewardship programs in all acute care hospitals by 2020. Evidence shows that in order for a government-led initiative like this to be successful, nurses must engage and contribute to the task force. As nurses are the ones who administer medications, they are antibiotic first responders. According to evidence-based research, the most optimal way to ensure effective nurse participation will be through nursing education on an individual and organizational level. Through the support and engagement of nurses into the interdisciplinary campaign, antimicrobial stewardship can produce optimal outcomes for patients, hospitals, and communities.