What is the primary objective of antimicrobial stewardship in infection control?

The primary objective of antimicrobial stewardship is to optimize the treatment of infections while reducing the prevalence of antibiotic resistance. This approach emphasizes the responsible use of antibiotics to ensure that they remain effective for treating infections in the future.

Antimicrobial stewardship involves various strategies, including selecting the appropriate antibiotic therapy based on the known bacterial infections, dosing it accurately, and limiting the duration of treatment when appropriate. By carefully managing how antibiotics are prescribed and used, the program aims to minimize unnecessary exposure to these drugs, which in turn helps slow down the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Additionally, the implementation of such stewardship programs contributes to improved patient outcomes, as well as reduced healthcare costs associated with treating resistant infections. Therefore, the focus is not solely on tracking resistance patterns or restricting medications but rather on achieving a balance that ensures effective treatment while preserving antibiotic effectiveness for future patients.