Exploring barriers to and enablers of antimicrobial stewardship in rural health services

Abstract

BACKGROUND: World-wide antimicrobial resistance is increasing, and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions aimed at increasing compliance with optimal antimicrobial prescribing are essential in tackling this issue. Local level research about antimicrobial use is important to tailor interventions in a place-based approach to solve local level problems. METHODS: As part of a broader mixed methods study, Medical Practitioners and Senior Nurses at three rural health services were invited by email to participate in interviews to explore opinions and practices of antimicrobial prescribing. RESULTS: Seven Medical Practitioners and thirteen Senior Nurses from three small rural health services ..