Pharmacist-driven antimicrobial optimization in the emergency department

Abstract

Pharmacist-driven antimicrobial stewardship program resulted in a 30% absolute increase in interventions for inappropriate therapy as compared to the nursing-driven model. This stewardship program has further demonstrated the value of ED pharmacists. Pharmacist interventions should help to ensure that infections are resolved through modification of antimicrobial therapies for patients with bug-drug mismatches. The fluoroquinolone resistance rate indicates a need to consider alternative therapies for uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Nitrofurantoin remains with good coverage against E. coli and Enterococcus species but should be used in uncomplicated patients with normal renal function.