ABS Implementation Workshop 3 Now Complete!
Combatting AMR Through Collaboration
Antimicrobial resistance is recognised as a global health emergency. To tackle this mounting threat, concerted and collaborative efforts of all stakeholders are needed.
Engaged clinical staff are critical to combatting this public health threat. Optimising the use of antibiotics within healthcare settings, spearheading the judicious use of antibiotics, preserving their effectiveness for the future, and educating are at the core of successful antibiotic stewardship (ABS) programmes.
ABS Implementation Workshop - Cohort 3
To this end, in mid-September, cohort three representatives travelled to Zurich for their ABS implementation workshop! This two-day event saw leading figures from work packages 4 (ABS) and 5 (implementation) collaborate to provide an engaging and instructive workshop delving into ABS, interactive real-world case studies, problem-solving, and implementing strategies sustainably.

An Interactive Programme
In a mixture of lectures and hands-on group work, Drs. Walter Zingg, Ashlesha Sonpar, Jesús Rodríguez-Baño, Lauren Clack,
Bianca Albers, Laura Caci, Kathrin Blum, and Elena Carrara tackled topics including:
State-of-the-art: ABS
ABS within REVERSE
Appropriate antibiotic prescriptions
Real-world case studies from medicine, surgery, haematology, and intensive care
Implementation science - the How and the What
The role of the implementation teams in enhancing ABS
Involving key hospital stakeholders in ABS
Goal setting, identifying barriers and facilitators
Selecting and adapting context-specific implementation strategies
Data collection and monitoring implementation strategies
Final Thoughts
Key take-home messages for successful ABS implementation included:
1. Build a strong, dedicated, and focused team, including both leaders and champions.
2. Engaging all hospital stakeholders and department heads is a must.
3. Comprehensively plan interventions according to resources.
4. Measure data, monitor results, and continuously seek feedback.
Coming Up
Looking ahead, a key milestone for the REVERSE Project is approaching!
The final ABS Intervention Workshop for Cohort Four is scheduled for 18 – 19 November 2024, coinciding with World Antimicrobial Awareness Week.