Abstract
Aims Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) describes a preventative approach to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Evidence suggests that nursing knowledge and perceptions of their role in AMS inhibits their involvement in antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs). This systematic review aimed to determine the knowledge and perceptions of nurses regarding AMS.
Methods A systematic search of publications using MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases was conducted and a narrative synthesis undertaken. The study protocol was registered prospectively in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42024524162.
Results This review included seven studies. Limited levels of nurses’ knowledge about AMS were significant in all studies, contributing to a lack of nurse engagement and involvement in AMS interventions. An inability to implement AMS protocols in clinical practice was often the result of inadequate knowledge of policies and procedures. Barriers to nurse involvement in AMS included training and education, competing priorities and organisational boundaries.
Conclusion Nurses have a vital role in ASPs and empowering them to challenge inappropriate prescribing practices or antibiotic therapy can contribute towards their success. Future studies should focus on developing targeted educational interventions, enhancing interprofessional collaboration, and exploring the impact of cultural and institutional differences to optimize the role of nurse in ASPs.
Methods A systematic search of publications using MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases was conducted and a narrative synthesis undertaken. The study protocol was registered prospectively in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42024524162.
Results This review included seven studies. Limited levels of nurses’ knowledge about AMS were significant in all studies, contributing to a lack of nurse engagement and involvement in AMS interventions. An inability to implement AMS protocols in clinical practice was often the result of inadequate knowledge of policies and procedures. Barriers to nurse involvement in AMS included training and education, competing priorities and organisational boundaries.
Conclusion Nurses have a vital role in ASPs and empowering them to challenge inappropriate prescribing practices or antibiotic therapy can contribute towards their success. Future studies should focus on developing targeted educational interventions, enhancing interprofessional collaboration, and exploring the impact of cultural and institutional differences to optimize the role of nurse in ASPs.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Wound Practice and Research |
| Early online date | 1 Mar 2025 |
| Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 1 Mar 2025 |
