ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: REDUCING RISKS WITH EFFECTIVE STEWARDSHIP

Author Name: 1. Mr. Vinothkumar. G, 2. Mrs. R. Uma Maheswari, 3. Mrs. R. Saraswathi

Volume/Issue: 05/07

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/12.2024-48433222/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Associate Professor, Karpaga Vinayaga College of Nursing, India.
2. Associate Professor, Adhiparasakthi College of Nursing, Melmaruvathur, Kancheepuram Dt, Tamil Nadu, India.
3. Associate Professor, Karpaga Vinayaga College of Nursing, Chengalpattu, India.

ABSTRACT

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical threat to global health, undermining the efficacy of treatments for infectious diseases and increasing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Factors such as the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, poor infection control practices, and agricultural use of antibiotics contribute to the growing prevalence of AMR. Effective antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is essential to combat this threat, with nurses playing a central role through infection control, patient education, monitoring antibiotic use, and promoting evidence-based practices. This article examines the mechanisms of AMR, the principles of AMS, and strategies for overcoming challenges in nursing practice, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to safeguard antimicrobial efficacy for future generations.

Key words: Antimicrobial resistance, antimicrobial stewardship, infection control, nursing interventions, evidence-based practice.