A mixed methods study of the barriers and enablers in implementing antimicrobial stewardship programmes in Australian regional and rural hospitals

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care released recommendations for antimicrobial stewardship programmes to be established within all Australian healthcare facilities. However, implementation practices are not well defined. The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of factors affecting implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programmes within Australian regional and rural hospitals. METHODS: This study was designed whereby a preliminary quantitative process was used to contribute to a principally qualitative study. Site visits to regional and rural hospitals in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia were planned to assess fa..