Evaluation of a carbapenem antimicrobial stewardship program and clinical outcomes in a Japanese hospital

Microorganisms can evolve and become resistant to antimicrobials, and this is known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to AMR, and antimicrobial stewardship programs have been developed to mitigate AMR. The Appropriate Use of Carbapenems Program was implemented in March 2019 in a university hospital and its effect was evaluated.

The implementation of the Appropriate Use of Carbapenems Program was effective in reducing the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and maintaining the antibiotic susceptibility of P. aeruginosa.