Role of the Pharmacist in Antimicrobial Stewardship

Abstract

The goals of antimicrobial stewardship are to optimize antimicrobial use to improve patient outcomes and minimize adverse consequences. A successful antimicrobial stewardship program is one that is multidisciplinary. Pharmacists are core members of antimicrobial stewardship and undertake multiple roles to accomplish the goals of the program. As antimicrobial stewardship continues to expand across the patient care continuum, pharmacists will serve a vital role in preserving the armamentarium of antimicrobials and improving quality of patient care.

Keywords: Antimicrobial stewardship; Hospital; Long-term care; Outpatient; Pharmacist; Pharmacy; Prospective audit with intervention and feedback.