Multicentre stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial of an antimicrobial stewardship programme in residential aged care: Protocol for the START trial

Abstract

Introduction Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health threat, driven by increasing inappropriate use of antimicrobials. High prevalence of unnecessary use of antimicrobials in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) has driven demand for the development and implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes. The Stepped-wedge Trial to increase antibiotic Appropriateness in Residential aged care facilities and model Transmission of antimicrobial resistance (START) will implement and evaluate the impact of a nurse-led AMS programme on antimicrobial use in 12 RACFs. Methods and analysis The START trial will implement and evaluate a nurse-led AMS programme via a stepped-wed..