Antibiotic Use Before and After COVID-19 in an Italian Hospital
Author Information
Author(s): Costantino Maria, Giudice Valentina, Campana Federica, Iannelli Alessandra Anna, Scala Pasqualina, Longanella Walter, Marongiu Francesco, Vozzella Emilia Anna, Elberti Maria Giovanna, Alfieri Maria, Boccia Giovanni, Conti Valeria, De Caro Francesco, Filippelli Amelia, Vázquez-Lago Juan Manuel, Estany-Gestal Ana, Salgado-Barreira Angel
Primary Institution: University of Salerno
Hypothesis
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the PNCAR in enhancing antibiotic management practices in a hospital in southern Italy before and after its implementation.
Conclusion
The study found that after the introduction of the PNCAR, there was a significant increase in the appropriateness of antibiotic prescriptions and the use of Access antibiotics.
Supporting Evidence
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing global threat that significantly impacts public health.
- The Italian National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (PNCAR) was introduced in 2017 to improve antibiotic stewardship.
- After PNCAR introduction, there was a significant increase in antibiotic prescription appropriateness.
- Access antibiotics accounted for 35.5% of total DDDs in 2023, up from 34.1% in 2019.
- Reserve antibiotics usage increased from 7.6% to 9.7% of total DDDs from 2019 to 2023.
- Overall antibiotic consumption increased by 10.2% from 2019 to 2023.
Takeaway
The study shows that better rules for using antibiotics can help doctors make smarter choices, which is important for keeping us healthy and fighting germs.
Methodology
An observational monocentric study analyzing antibiotic consumption in a hospital setting before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Limitations
The study is limited to a single hospital and may not represent broader trends across different regions or healthcare settings.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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